Benue SUBEB Chairman hosts Africa’s first female Astronaut, seeks partnership to boost STEM education

By Benedicta Aboh

The Executive Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, on Tuesday received Africa’s first female astronaut, Ms. Sarah Sabri, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Deep Space Initiative (DSI), at the SUBEB headquarters in Makurdi.

The Information Officer of the Board, Emmanuella Akese in a statement stated that Dr. Adagba while receiving the delegation hailed Ms. Sabri’s groundbreaking achievements, noting that as an astronomer herself, she was proud to host a global trailblazer in space exploration.

She underscored SUBEB’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships that expand educational opportunities for young learners across Benue State.

“The mission of the Deep Space Initiative aligns perfectly with Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s vision to advance STEM education, foster innovation, and inspire a new generation of technologically driven youths in our State,” Dr. Adagba said.

She also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at ensuring all children attend school, promising collaboration with the State Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management to enforce the Universal Basic Education (UBE) law and reduce the number of out-of-school children in Benue.

Responding, Ms. Sabri expressed her commitment to partnering with the Benue State Government to enhance accessibility to space education through research and STEM initiatives.

She emphasized the immense talent of African youths and the potential of proper support to make the continent self-reliant in key sectors.

“Our goal at the Deep Space Initiative is to create opportunities for young Africans to explore their potential in science, technology, and innovation,” Ms. Sabri said, adding that she looked forward to collaborating with SUBEB to nurture this vision.

Ms. Sabri was accompanied by top state officials, including Barr. Moses Atagher, Chief of Staff to the Governor; Dr. Margaret Adamu, Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management; Dr. Peter Egbodo, Commissioner for Information; and Mrs. Helen Nambativ, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, among other dignitaries.

The visit signaled a growing focus on space education and STEM development in Benue State, with the potential to inspire a new generation of innovators and researchers.