Our Origin
CIST was founded in 2002 in response to the ever-widening gap in technology between the developed and developing countries like Nigeria. We made the decision to dedicate ourselves to improving the level of knowledge, desire and participation in science and technology among children in our region in order to close the gap.
Children are the driving force of the future. As we are constantly reminded, they constitute the main reserve of future administrators. As such, we set out to build an avenue for them to be kept properly informed about developments in science, so that in turn they can grow into powerful and knowledgeable individuals who will take responsible and well-informed decisions to improve their country.
We asked ourselves one crucial question: Is a formal school setting the only place where science can be learnt? Science was already being studied in schools. We were not interested in the what but the how; and that led us to developing a unique system to harness the natural curiosity of children, as well as creating stimulating materials and experiences that generate the fun and optimism that children love.
Children have natural inclinations to learn. They want to learn. They can learn. We constantly strive to provide the perfect way for them to do just that.
Timeline
CIST has had great impact on our local community with science clubs, excursions, science fairs, improvised teaching and learning materials, mobile libraries, awareness programmes and workshops, as well as activities such as innovative science games, quizzes, debates and playlets.
But none of this would have been possible without our project director, Ibiyinka Ogunlade. At a conference in Kaduna, Ibiyinka was overwhelmed by the need to create an optimal system for educating children on science and technology. This led to the birth of Children Science Clinic in 1992, an annual science workshop for children aged 5-11 as part of a general “Catch them young” strategy.
Ten years later, Ibiyinka and her team founded CIST as a more expansive phase of the catch-them-young project.
Today, no one in our community has impacted more on children in science and technology than CIST. In our over 20 years of operations, we have made remarkable progress with young people and our efforts have been recognised by the international community.
Creativity and Invention
We prioritise new methods of learning, away from the traditional, formal methods. Our organisation constantly seeks new ways to incorporate the learning of science, technology and mathematics into the everyday activities of children. Moreover, we encourage children to try out new things and reward them for their little successes.
Practical Learning
While theory is no doubt indispensable, we place great emphasis on practical approaches and ensure that different scientific and technological concepts and principles are put into practical use.
Societal Development
At CIST, we recognise that people, including children, are agents of social change. Thus, we uphold activities that underline social values and sensitize children on crucial issues in society.
Gender Equity
We ensure that both boys and girls are provided with the maximum opportunity, resources and teaching that they need to become the best version of themselves.
We are grateful for your encouragements both in cash and kind towards our efforts in catching the children young for science and popularizing Science and Technology among youths in Africa.
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