It has firmly emphasized that investing in young minds is an investment in the future of Nigeria and the entire African continent, as well as the crucial role of the strong associations between the academy and the industry has been well recognized.
The statement was made by the protagonist of the RAENG-HEPSSA Spoke institution, the ABUBAKAR TAFAWA BALEWA (ATBU), Bauchi, Prof Robinson I. Ejilah, in a welcome speech during the opening of a one-day workshop titled: “Igniting Young Minds. ” Saturday at the 1000 -Square Conference Theater.
The workshop was organized on behalf of the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAENG) and the Association of Higher Education for the Office of the Sub -Saharan Africa (Hepssa) at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Technology (FET), ABUBAKAR University Tafawa Balewa (ATBU ).
The Don emphasized that “the call for this workshop, rightly entitled” that lights young minds: a research workshop for aspiring engineering academics in Nigerian universities, “marks a significant fact in our collective effort to nurture the next Generation of engineering leaders “.
According to him, “it is one of the activities under the HEPSSA project, entitled” Improvement of Engineering Education in Sub -Saharan Africa through a research and innovation pipe “, directed by our dear colleague, Prof Amos Omamo, from the University of Meru and Technology Sciences, Kenya, which seeks to improve the ability of Sub -Saharan Africa universities to develop engineers equipped for local and global challenges. “
He explained that “this initiative underlines the unwavering commitment of Raeng and Hepssa to promote scientific excellence and promote innovation within the Nigerian higher education scenario.”
Robinson Ejilah added that “since its inception in 1976, the RAENG has demonstrated a growing commitment to advance in the higher education sector of sub -Saharan Africa.”
He stressed that “during the last decade, the Academy has intensified its efforts to improve the capacity of African universities, cultivating a cohort of engineers equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to address local and global challenges.”
“We extend our most sincere appreciation of the Academy for its invaluable contributions and the generous financial support that this event has made possible today,” he added.
He also explained: “This workshop transcends the traditional conference format. It provides a unique platform for you: to deepen your understanding of research methodologies, which covers areas such as research design, data collection, analysis and interpretation. “
It is also to explore the integration of design principles in engineering education and research efforts and obtain valuable information about the construction of a solid research portfolio, including strategies to obtain research funds and explore marketing opportunities , as well as improve your knowledge of research ethics, integrity, integrity, and intellectual property rights.
The leader of the Spoke institution added that it is to cultivate a collaborative research environment promoting tutoring relations and participating in interdisciplinary collaborations and developing effective writing skills and scientific communication to disseminate the results of the research effectively.
In addition, to allow young minds to actively participate in the development of a specific context policy proposal to advise the next generation of researchers within Nigerian higher education institutions (IEI).
He said that “beyond the dissemination of knowledge, this workshop aims to turn on his passion for research, sharpen his critical thinking skills and promote a powerful network of colleagues and mentors. We have gathered a distinguished panel of speakers, which includes academics Outstanding, emerging industry leaders and consummate researchers. “
“His insicious presentations will not only enrich his understanding of the key research concepts, but will also inspire him to seek innovative and shocking research efforts,” he added.
According to him, “this workshop also serves as an cornerstone of a broader vision: to train the next generation of engineers, cultivate a vibrant research ecosystem within the Nigerian universities and close the gap between the academy and the industry. By promoting a culture of innovation, curiosity and collaborative research, our goal is to equip it with the tools and trust necessary to excel in their academic and professional activities. “
He added that “this workshop provides a valuable opportunity to forge significant connections that can lead to shocking research collaborations and the development of innovative solutions to address pressing social challenges. I encourage you to actively participate in discussions, ask insightful questions, share your Ideas and take this opportunity to explore new research paths that arouse their curiosity. “
Then he thanked the management, the staff and the students of the University of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi, for their tremendous support and encouragement throughout the implementation of the project.
“I want to extend our sincere gratitude to our estimated collaborators, including the University of Science and Technology of Meru (Must), Kenya, the University of Scotland of Scotland, Bit-Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, University of Calabar, State University of Lagos of Technology, Egbin Power PLC and other valuable industry partners, for its invaluable support in this effort, ”he added.
Robinson Ejilah concluded by stating that “we also express our deepest appreciation to our estimated facilitators, whose experience and disposition to share their knowledge with us today made this workshop possible. Together, we turn on young minds, combine innovation and collectively form a brighter future for Nigeria and the world. “
In his comments, the Vice Chancellor of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Professor Ibrahim, praised the organization of the workshop, saying that he will greatly contribute to awakening young students on how to become professionals in the field of science and technology.
The VC, which was represented by Professor Sulaiman Dodo, Dean, Faculty of Engineering, ATBU, expressed the preparation of the university to also support the research that will lead to the growth and development of engineering.
He asked the participants to listen carefully to the presentations and ask relevant questions to clarify, which is the reason for the workshop in the first place.