24/06/2024
*ADIAHA OBONG SECONDARY COMMERCIAL SCHOOL EMBARKS ON EDUCATIONAL EXCURSION TO ADVANCED SPACE TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS LABORATORY*
In a move to enhance the practical learning experience of its students, Adiaha Obong Secondary Commercial School organized an educational excursion to the Advanced Space Technology Applications Laboratory (ASTAL) on June 20, 2024.
The excursion saw enthusiastic participation from over 50 students, accompanied by their Instructors. Upon arrival, the students were welcomed by Dr Kenneth Uchua, the Executive/ CEO of ASTAL, who gave a welcome speech. Dr. Kenneth highlighted the importance the presence of women in commanding roles challenges long-standing stereotypes about gender roles in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. He noted that each and every profession has a linkage in space technology.
During their visit, students had the opportunity to be lectured on the topic; Brief on Space Technology by Mrs. Ekanem Glory and Carrier Prospect by Mrs Olanike Akinola.
One of the highlights of the tour was a video demonstration of a satellite launch simulation via a projector which captivated the students and sparked numerous questions about the intricacies of space missions.
During an interactive session, students engaged with ASTAL scientists, asking insightful questions about careers in space technology and the educational paths necessary to enter this field. Dr Esther Hanson; the Head Information Planning and Documentation commended the students for their curiosity and encouraged them to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
The students were then guided through various sections of the laboratory, including guided tours to the Digital Image Processing Laboratory (DIPL) and we're taught on how to use the GPS machine and Binoculars.
Mr. Mfoniso Luke, the Team Leader and Mathematics Teacher of Adiaha Obong Secondary Commercial School, expressed his gratitude to ASTAL for hosting the students. "This excursion has been an invaluable experience for our students," he said. "It has not only expanded their knowledge but also inspired many of them to consider careers in science and technology." Mr Luke was accompanied by the Physics Teacher - Mr Uzobueze Chika.
The visit to ASTAL is part of Adiaha Obong Secondary Commercial School’s broader initiative to integrate more practical learning experiences into the curriculum, aiming to better prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.