From IKECHUKWU NNADI, Nsukka
President Bola Tinubu has challenged Nigerian universities to embark on innovative research that could help to boost production and diversify the nation’s economy.
Tinubu gave the charge yesterday – Saturday, December 21 – at the 53rd convocation of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), while
delivering his address as the visitor of the institution.
The convocation was for the conferment of postgraduate diplomas, higher degrees, professor emeritus and honorary degrees
The president who was represented by Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka said universities should leverage the opportunity that abound in innovation
and channel their efforts towards specific innovative research to help to turn around the nation’s economy.
“It is now common knowledge that research and Innovation can grow the economy of a country faster than mineral deposits.
“I challenge all scholars in this university and other universities to embark on specific innovative research that can help to boost production and diversify our economy.
“As one of the premier universities, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka is expected to lead the way in this important quest for all-round excellence.
“I also challenge our universities to continue to emphasise training in entrepreneurship so that these graduates can become job creators, instead of perennial job seekers.
“I have no doubt that Nigerian universities are very much able to find lasting solutions to problems faced by the country,” he said.
The president, who acknowledged that the educational system in the country requires urgent reform, assured that his administration is giving it the much-needed attention.
“The administration recognized, quite early in its tenure, that the system was in urgent need of reforms at various levels such as primary, secondary, and tertiary.
“Some of the issues are being addressed at different levels, but a lot needs to be done. The funding needed to revitalize the education system is much. It is, therefore, expedient that all hands must be on
deck to assist the education sector,” he said.
In his remarks, Prof. Polycarp Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN, while congratulating the graduates, said, “You have joined the league of men and women who make our university continually blaze the trail in learning and innovation in Nigeria and beyond. We celebrate your doggedness and the strength of character that have led to this fulfilment of dreams.”
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, and Pastor Jerry Eze, the founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International, were honoured with Honorary ‘Doctor of Law’ and ‘Doctor of Divinity’, respectively.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, HRH Igwe Samuel Asadu, Chairman, Enugu State of traditional rulers, UNN council members, were
among the dignitaries that attended the occasion.