Scienceandtech

Securing the Future: Leveraging Science, Engineering, and Technology for Safe Schools in Nigeria By Dr. Babajide Gboyega Alalade (AISLT) In this write-up, Dr. Babajide Gboyega Alalade discusses the Safe Schools Initiative in Nigeria, led by the Nigeria Police Force under the coordination of Commissioner of Police Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, who is in charge of the program. The initiative aims to protect students from security threats through innovative solutions. He asserts that integrating science, engineering, and technology (SET) is crucial to enhancing school safety by implementing measures such as AI-powered surveillance, biometric access control, emergency communication systems, data analytics, and robotics. Dr. Alalade emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between law enforcement and technology firms, as well as continuous training and standardized practices, to ensure the long-term success of the initiative. Securing the Future: Leveraging Science, Engineering, and Technology for Safe Schools in Nigeria By Dr. Babajide Gboyega Alalade (AISLT) The safety of students in Nigeria’s schools has become an urgent national priority in response to the increasing security threats faced by educational institutions. The rise in kidnappings, attacks on schools, and other security breaches has brought to the forefront the need for comprehensive, proactive measures to protect students and staff. In response to these challenges, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetoku, PhD, NPM, and coordinated by Commissioner of Police Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, has launched the Safe Schools Initiative. This initiative is designed to safeguard students in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across the country, ensuring a secure environment conducive to learning. While the initiative has garnered widespread support for its emphasis on physical security and law enforcement presence in schools, one critical factor stands out as essential for the initiative’s long-term success—Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET). The integration of SET into the Safe Schools Initiative will not only enhance the capacity of security personnel but also provide innovative solutions to address security threats in real-time, foster a culture of awareness, and ensure a safer learning environment. The Role of Science, Engineering, and Technology in School Security The role of science, engineering, and technology in securing schools cannot be overemphasized. Advances in SET can help address a range of challenges, from physical security and emergency response to data analysis and communication. Here are some of the critical areas where SET can contribute to the success of the Safe Schools Initiative. 1. Surveillance and Monitoring Systems One of the most powerful tools for ensuring school security is the use of advanced surveillance technologies. The installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and smart monitoring systems provides real-time footage of school premises, helping to detect and respond to suspicious activities quickly. With innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, these systems can be enhanced to automatically identify potential threats, such as intruders or unauthorized access to restricted areas, and send immediate alerts to security personnel. Actionable SET Solutions: CCTV Surveillance with AI Integration: Deploy AI-powered CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition software to identify potential intruders or missing persons. These systems can also track the movement of individuals across campuses, ensuring that any unusual activity is flagged for immediate attention. Automated Threat Detection: Integrating sensors that detect abnormal behavior, such as an individual carrying a weapon or loitering in restricted areas, can enhance security measures, providing a proactive approach to security breaches. 2. Biometric Access Control Systems To prevent unauthorized entry into school premises, biometric access control systems—such as fingerprint or retina scanning—offer an effective means of ensuring only authorized personnel, staff, and students gain access to school buildings. This technology eliminates the risks associated with traditional locks and keys, which can be easily copied or bypassed. Actionable SET Solutions: Fingerprint and Retina Scanning: Implement biometric systems at school entrances to ensure that only registered individuals can access school buildings. This system can be linked to a central database for real-time monitoring of school traffic. Smart Card Access: Integrating radio-frequency identification (RFID) cards with access control systems ensures a seamless and secure entry process for students and staff, while reducing human error and unauthorized access. 3. Emergency Response Communication Systems In the event of an emergency, it is essential for schools to have a reliable communication network to alert law enforcement, school staff, and students about potential threats. Modern communication systems, powered by wireless technology and emergency notification apps, can ensure a swift and coordinated response. Actionable SET Solutions: Mobile Safety Applications: Develop and deploy mobile applications that allow students and staff to send instant alerts to security personnel and law enforcement. These apps can also provide real-time updates on evacuation procedures and safety protocols. Two-way Communication Systems: Install communication systems that allow school security officers to communicate directly with local law enforcement and emergency response teams, ensuring a quick response to potential threats. 4. Data Analytics and Threat Intelligence Data analytics and big data can play a significant role in preemptively identifying security threats. By leveraging existing data from social media, crime reports, and other sources, authorities can use predictive analytics to assess the risk levels of specific schools or regions. This allows for targeted interventions and resource allocation where they are needed most. Actionable SET Solutions: Predictive Analytics for Threat Assessment: Use data analytics platforms to process large datasets from various sources (e.g., social media, incident reports, crime statistics) to identify patterns and predict potential threats. This allows for a more proactive approach to security. Geo-Spatial Analysis: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can be used to map out school locations in high-risk areas, helping security agencies better understand geographical threats and optimize security patrol routes. 5. Cybersecurity for Digital Infrastructure As the world becomes increasingly digitized, schools are adopting more online learning tools, e-learning platforms, and digital communication systems. While these technologies offer great benefits, they also expose students and educational institutions to the risks of cyberattacks, which can undermine the safety of their digital infrastructure. Actionable SET Solutions: Cybersecurity Protocols: Strengthen the cybersecurity measures of e-learning platforms and digital communication

In 2025, Nigeria stood shoulder to shoulder with the global community to celebrate World Wildlife Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the vital importance of wildlife and the urgent need for effective conservation efforts. The theme for this year’s celebration, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet,” echoed a call for sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and local communities. The event, held in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, was a testament to the nation’s commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity while empowering its people. Nigeria’s Commitment to Conservation: A Pledge to Protect Nature and Empower Communities During the World Wildlife Day event, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, emphasized the country’s steadfast commitment to sustainable wildlife financing. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Mahmud Adam Kambari, the Minister underscored the critical role of local communities in wildlife conservation. Local participation, the Minister noted, is essential for the success of conservation initiatives as they are often the closest stewards of the land and its resources. The Nigerian government’s pledge aims to preserve biodiversity while also improving the livelihoods of local communities, especially those whose way of life depends on the land. However, achieving these goals requires more than just funding; it demands a multi-faceted approach, including strong partnerships between the government, the private sector, and the civil society. The Role of Policymakers in Shaping the Future of Wildlife in Nigeria Policymakers play a crucial role in advancing wildlife conservation efforts in Nigeria. As the government sets the legal and financial frameworks for conservation, it must ensure that policies are both effective and inclusive. As the keynote speaker at the World Wildlife Day event, Dr. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), pointed out the need for collaboration between the government, the private sector, and civil society organizations to create a robust financial infrastructure for conservation. The government’s responsibility extends to providing alternative livelihoods for communities that may be tempted to engage in illegal activities like poaching. This not only safeguards endangered species but also helps uplift the economic prospects of local populations. Strong policy measures are essential for creating economic opportunities that reduce the dependence on activities that threaten wildlife, such as poaching, hunting, and habitat destruction. The Role of Scientists in Conservation: A Scientific Approach to Preservation While policymakers lay the foundation for wildlife conservation, scientists—especially laboratory scientists—are at the forefront of research and innovation that drive these efforts. Their role is pivotal in advancing wildlife protection strategies, ensuring that conservation methods are based on sound scientific data and cutting-edge technologies. Laboratory scientists in particular contribute significantly by studying the health, genetics, and behavior of wildlife species. This scientific knowledge is crucial for identifying threats to biodiversity and developing methods for combating these challenges. For instance, laboratory scientists are instrumental in researching the impacts of diseases on endangered species and developing vaccination programs or treatments to protect these animals. Moreover, they study the genetic diversity of species, which is crucial for breeding programs aimed at revitalizing populations at risk of extinction. In the face of rapidly changing ecosystems and climate conditions, laboratory scientists also analyze the environmental factors that contribute to species endangerment, offering actionable insights that can inform policy and conservation strategies. By applying advanced scientific techniques, laboratory experts help bridge the gap between theory and practical, on-the-ground solutions. The Challenges of Wildlife Conservation in Nigeria Despite the commitment from the Nigerian government and the valuable contributions of scientists, Nigeria faces significant challenges in its efforts to conserve wildlife. One of the primary hurdles is illegal poaching, which remains rampant despite government and community-based initiatives. Poaching threatens not only endangered species but also disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems that local communities depend on. Deforestation is another major issue, as large areas of wildlife habitat are destroyed for agriculture, logging, and urban development. This not only displaces wildlife but also reduces the available resources that both humans and animals rely on for survival. Additionally, funding remains a significant challenge. While the Nigerian government has committed to wildlife financing, the lack of a comprehensive and sustainable financial model has hindered the effective implementation of conservation initiatives. The challenge lies in creating a financial framework that ensures long-term sustainability and encourages investment from both domestic and international sources. The Way Forward: Strategies for Effective Wildlife Conservation in Nigeria To overcome these challenges, several strategies must be employed. First and foremost, Nigeria needs to strengthen its law enforcement to combat illegal poaching and deforestation. This requires better training and resources for wildlife rangers and law enforcement agencies, along with stronger penalties for those who break conservation laws. Secondly, fostering public-private partnerships will be key to securing funding for wildlife conservation. Government policies should incentivize private sector investment in conservation initiatives, ensuring that businesses are not only profitable but also environmentally responsible. Additionally, community-based conservation programs must be expanded to include more local stakeholders in the decision-making process, ensuring that those most affected by conservation policies have a say in how they are implemented. Finally, more investment in research and the application of modern scientific methods is critical. Laboratory scientists and researchers must be empowered with the resources they need to conduct studies on biodiversity, ecosystem health, and species conservation. Their research can provide valuable data that informs both policy and on-the-ground conservation practices. Conclusion The 2025 World Wildlife Day marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward wildlife preservation. While there are clear challenges ahead, the combined efforts of policymakers, scientists, and local communities offer a path toward a sustainable future. By reinforcing the role of science, investing in local communities, and creating robust financial frameworks, Nigeria can help ensure that its rich biodiversity is preserved for generations to come. The success of wildlife conservation in Nigeria lies in collective action, collaboration, and commitment—principles that will guide the nation toward a greener, more sustainable future for both people and planet. Written by Dr. Babajide Gboyega Alalade (AISLT),

The Future of Jobs Report 2025: Prospects, Challenges, and the Role of Science, Engineering, Technology, and Innovation in Africa The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 sheds light on global labor market trends and the transformative impact of technological, economic, and social forces. Central to this transformation is the role of science, engineering, technology, and innovation (SETI), particularly in shaping the prospects and addressing challenges faced by regions like Africa. This article explores how SETI influences the future of work in Africa, highlighting the opportunities, obstacles, and strategies to leverage these changes for sustainable development. SETI as a Catalyst for Economic Transformation The rapid advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, renewable energy, and biotechnology has positioned SETI as a key driver of job creation and economic growth. In Africa, these technologies are already making significant impacts: Agriculture: Innovations in precision farming, drones, and genetically modified crops are enhancing food security and increasing productivity. Healthcare: Telemedicine, AI-based diagnostics, and biotech solutions are improving healthcare delivery in underserved areas. Renewable Energy: Solar and wind energy projects are addressing the continent’s power deficits while creating green jobs. The report estimates that technological advancements will create millions of new roles globally, including big data specialists, AI and machine learning engineers, and renewable energy specialists. For Africa, where over 60% of the population is under 25, these opportunities could be transformative. Prospects for Africa’s Workforce Africa’s youthful population, coupled with an expanding labor force, offers a unique opportunity to harness SETI for development. Key prospects include: 1. Job Creation in Emerging Sectors: The transition to a green economy and advancements in digital technology are expected to generate jobs in clean energy, fintech, e-commerce, and advanced manufacturing. 2. Upskilling and Talent Development: With investments in education and training, Africa can build a workforce capable of filling roles in high-demand sectors, such as AI, data science, and cybersecurity. 3. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Africa’s tech hubs, such as Nigeria’s Yabacon Valley and Kenya’s Silicon Savannah, demonstrate the continent’s potential to produce world-class innovations tailored to local challenges. Challenges Facing Africa While the prospects are promising, Africa faces unique challenges that could hinder its ability to fully benefit from the global shift in labor markets: 1. Infrastructure Deficits: Limited access to reliable electricity, internet, and transportation infrastructure restricts the deployment of advanced technologies. 2. Skill Gaps: Many African countries lack the educational and training systems necessary to equip their citizens with skills for emerging industries. 3. Brain Drain: The emigration of skilled professionals to more developed countries exacerbates the talent gap. 4. Economic Inequality: The uneven distribution of technological advancements risks widening the gap between rural and urban areas, as well as between low-income and high-income groups. The Way Forward: Harnessing SETI for Africa’s Development To overcome these challenges and maximize the potential of SETI, Africa must adopt a multi-pronged strategy: 1. Investing in Education and Training: Governments and private sectors must collaborate to revamp educational curricula to include STEM fields, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial skills. Vocational training programs should focus on high-demand areas such as renewable energy, AI, and advanced manufacturing. 2. Enhancing Infrastructure: Increased investment in energy, internet connectivity, and transportation infrastructure is essential for enabling technological adoption and industrial growth. 3. Promoting Research and Development (R&D): Establishing innovation hubs and increasing funding for R&D can foster homegrown solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs. 4. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between governments, private companies, and international organizations can drive large-scale initiatives in green energy, healthcare, and technology deployment. 5. Policy and Regulation: Governments must create favorable policies to encourage investment in SETI while protecting workers’ rights and addressing social inequalities. Conclusion The Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights the transformative potential of SETI in reshaping global and regional labor markets. For Africa, the prospects are immense but contingent on overcoming significant challenges. By investing in education, infrastructure, and innovation, and fostering partnerships, Africa can position itself as a leader in the global knowledge economy. The continent’s youthful population, coupled with its growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, provides the foundation for a brighter future powered by science, engineering, technology, and innovation. As Africa navigates this transition, the role of SETI will be instrumental in ensuring sustainable development, reducing inequality, and creating a resilient, inclusive workforce for the future. Written by Dr. Babajide Gboyega Alalade (AISLT), Foremost African Digital Scientist and Tech Venture Creation Expert.