More science students needed in universities

The government aims for at least 60% of students enrolled in science-related courses in universities by the time the country achieves a developed nation status.

Science, Technology and Inno­vation Minister Datuk Seri Madius Tangau underlined the need for students to enjoy science so that they will be encouraged to pursue it at higher education.

He said that by the time the nation has achieved a developed nation status, “we must be able to compete and have skills or knowledge in science and technology.”

According to him, the government hoped to increase the current 35% of students enrolled in science-related courses to 60%. He added that Sabah as a result will have its own Science Centre very soon at a selected site in Tuaran.

The minister was at the Kota Kinabalu National Science Centre’s Science Festival, a three-day festival organised to encourage students to be more engaged with science in a fun way. The festival ended yesterday.