The Science Ambassadors Foundation (SAF) on Saturday suggested the use of local teaching aids to make the learning of mathematics and science subjects interesting to students.

Mrs Peace Nnabugwu, Convener of an SAF training programme for mathematics and science teachers held at the Federal Science Equipment Centre in Ijanikin, Lagos Lagos made the suggestion in Lagos.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) after the training, Nnabugwu said that adopting local teaching aids was important for Nigeria’s quest for technological development.

She that use of local teaching aids by teachers would make science subjects, including mathematics appealing to students, especially those in secondary schools.

According to her, making use of local teaching aids will also reduce the failure rate in mathematics and other science-related subjects in public examinations.

“When students are made to understand that common materials seen in the environment such as empty markers can be used to produce joystick, you are making the teaching of science interesting and interactive.

“That is the reason for the training,’’ she stated.

The Secretary of SAF, Mr Joshua Owolabi, said that training of teachers was necessary to improve the quality of education in the country, whether in public or private schools.

According to him, most teachers teach out of syllabus, but with local training aids in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, students will find their bearing.

Owolabi, however, regretted the poor sponsorship of educational programmes and training, saying that the development was not encouraging the growth of the education sector.

Some participants at the forum expressed their satisfaction with the training, describing it as educative, in spite of some hitches.

Mr Emmanuel Sokenu, a science teacher from the University of Lagos Staff School, said that exercises presented at the forum had some short-coming.

He said that the training should be made regular to broaden the knowledge of teachers and increase their enthusiasm for teaching. (NAN)