The AstroClub project, funded by OAD and supported by other local contributors worked with four secondary schools in Amichi and Awka-Extiti – Nnewi-South Local Area in Nigeria. The project’s goal was to spark interest in STEM education by providing engaging tools for exploring astrophysics and by facilitating interactive learning to cultivate curiosity and critical thinking among students. The project also encouraged active participation in the Science Club and fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts. Ultimately, the initiative aimed to inspire a new generation of scientists and thinkers by making astronomy accessible and captivating in the most remote regions of Nigeria.
Activities
The team visited the schools first to introduce project to the school management. With approval from the schools, the project team visited the schools in May-June 2023 and delivered
Lectures on Project Introduction, Astronomy/Astrophysics, Solar System, and Career Development in Science/Astroscience.
Establishment of Astronomy Club
Donations of laptops to the Astroclub represented by their teachers. The laptops were equipped with e-books, videos and application software such as Celestia, Stellarium, Space Engine, Skychart, Google Earth, World wide telescope and others.
Outcomes
Surveys and interviews were conducted to gather feedback from students and physics teachers regarding the impact of the Astronomy Club on their understanding and interest in astronomy. The team found Increased Interest in Science Enrollment in Trinity Secondary School by 30%, Union Secondary School by 25% and St. Joseph Seminary and Special Science Secondary School, Awka-Etiti by 10%.