By Obiageli Nwankwo
For a few hours in Onitsha on Aug. 8, learning moved beyond the traditional classroom as children explored science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through experiments, competitions, creative activities and hands on experiences.
The occasion was the STEAM FunFest Anambra 2026, a family oriented event that brought together children and young people to explore science, technology and creativity in an engaging and practical environment.
Beyond the excitement and competitions, the event offered a glimpse into a changing approach to education in Anambra State, where greater emphasis is being placed on equipping children with practical skills, creativity and the confidence to develop solutions to real life challenges.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, said the Prof. Chukwuma Soludo led administration was committed to preparing students with the skills required to navigate an increasingly technology driven world.
Ogugua stressed the importance of developing critical thinking, creativity, problem solving abilities and practical skills from an early age, noting that education should prepare young people not only to seek employment but also to identify opportunities and create value.
“We are preparing our children not just for the jobs of today, but for the opportunities of tomorrow,” he said.
The commissioner commended the organisers and partners of the FunFest for creating an environment where children could interact with science and technology beyond the conventional classroom setting.
He noted that early exposure to practical learning could help children discover their interests, develop their talents and build confidence in their ability to create and innovate.
According to him, the vision is to make Anambra schools places where children do more than receive information, but also learn, experiment, create and solve problems.
Ogugua assured that the Ministry of Education would continue to support initiatives that promote creativity, innovation and practical learning, stressing that these skills would be critical in preparing young people for the future.
The STEAM FunFest therefore served not only as a day of learning and entertainment for children, but also as a reminder of the growing need to connect classroom education with creativity, technology and real world problem solving.
Obiageli Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
