From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
The Plateau State Government has unveiled plans for the maiden edition of the Plateau State Science, Technology and Innovation Festival (PLASSTIFEST), an initiative aimed at promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-driven economic growth in the state.
The Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, announced this during a press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre in Jos, stating that the three-day festival will take place from June 1 to 3, 2026, at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, Jos.
Shurkuk said the festival is designed to showcase the creativity and ingenuity of Plateau people, connect innovators with investors and create opportunities for sustainable development.
He described PLASSTIFEST as a landmark initiative that will help position Plateau as a centre for science, technology and innovation while opening new pathways for economic transformation.
According to him, the state continues to face challenges in key sectors such as education, agriculture, mining, youth unemployment and infrastructure, but these challenges also provide opportunities for innovative solutions.
The festival, themed “Reimagining Plateau: Driving Innovation and Technology for a Smarter and Sustainable Future,” is expected to encourage citizens, particularly young people, to embrace science and technology as tools for development and prosperity.
Shurkuk noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to empower citizens through innovation and build a productive economy driven by creativity and technology.
“The time is now to change the narrative of Plateau State, to move from dependency to creativity, from consumption to production, and from challenges to opportunities,” he said.
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The commissioner disclosed that the festival will feature exhibitions by local innovators and startups, keynote presentations, panel discussions, innovation awards and networking sessions aimed at connecting innovators with investors, mentors and development partners.
He further revealed that the event will attract high-profile participants, including the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).
According to Shurkuk, the involvement of federal agencies and development partners is expected to strengthen Plateau’s innovation ecosystem and attract investments into the state.
He explained that PLASSTIFEST is the beginning of a broader year-long programme that will include mentorship initiatives, innovation support schemes and community outreach activities to sustain a culture of innovation across Plateau.
The commissioner urged students, entrepreneurs, researchers, investors and policymakers to participate actively, describing the festival as a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and business growth. He also commended Governor Mutfwang, partners and sponsors for supporting the initiative and creating opportunities for young innovators to showcase their talents.