Chemistry is considered as a central science because of its crucial role in responding to the needs of society. We use chemistry to discover new processes, develop new sources of energy, produce new products and materials, provide more food, and ensure better health.

Indeed chemistry makes very positive and useful contributions in our world today.

Why is the subject taught?

Chemistry is embedded in Science taught at primary level, but introduced to learners for the first time as a subject at secondary level. The knowledge of Chemistry is necessary in the understanding of composition, properties and behaviour changes of matter that form the environment. Chemistry is a practical subject where scientific concepts, principles and skills are developed through experimental investigations. It is therefore, learnt best through discovery method.

Chemistry as often referred to as the “central science” because it serves as a necessary foundation for many other scientific disciplines. Regardless of which scientific field you are interested in, every single substance you will discuss or work with is made up of chemicals. Also, many processes important to those fields will be based on an understanding of Chemistry.

Prospects for Graduates in Chemistry

Chemistry has various branches. At Ordinary level, general chemistry is studied, while at Advanced level, Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, and Biochemistry are studied.

Most students who take such courses are majoring in Nursing, other health professions, or the Life Sciences, and consider Biochemistry to be the most relevant part of the course of study. However, the understanding of Biochemistry depends upon a sound background in Organic Chemistry, which in turn depends upon a good foundation in General Chemistry.

If you really appreciate the concepts that chemistry delivers, the career fields below will be of atmost interest to you;

1. Nutrition

2. Microbiology

3. Physiology

4. Botany

5. Health sciences

[NCDC]