Science education is vital to the technological and industrial advancement of any people. Learning enhanced
with practical classes where students are taught to perform experiments based on the theories they are taught.
In recent times however, this vital aspect of science education is largely hampered by non or near non-availability
of science laboratory equipment in secondary schools.
Worse still, adulterated and expired chemicals and reagents sometimes find their way into the market,
leading to unreliable results during experiments, poor performance and eventually loss of interest in science.
In a move to correct this worrisome trend, in 1997, the National Council on Science and Technology (NCST) mandated
the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT) and Raw Materials Research and Development Council
(RMRDC) to develop a programme for the local production of chemicals and reagents for secondary schools in Nigeria.
NARICT has also developed a locally fabricated unit useful in the production of distilled water. Some of the units
have been supplied to secondary schools across the country and even battery chargers patronize it.
The institute organizes periodic training, workshops for science teachers across the country. Science
practical classes (using NARICT facilities) are also periodically packaged for chemistry and physics students of
Senior Secondary Schools (SS1—SS3) at moderate fees. This is intended to familiarize the students with laboratory workings and to enhance their performance in their final examination. Teachers in this programme are WAEC and NECO accredited examiners. We have conducted training for Kano, Katsina, Niger, Bauchi, Anambra and Kaduna states.
These are mainly Chemicals, Reagents and Distilled Water.
