From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Professor Olu Obafemi of the University of Ilorin has called for immediate implementation of the proposed establishment of research universities ‘with world-class facilities’ in Nigeria.
Professor Obafemi noted that the establishment of research universities as proposed by his colleague, Professor Awhor Ogugua has become necessary ‘if we must contribute to global knowledge creation and accelerated development.
Professor Obafemi made the call in a Convocation Lecture: title; “The Role of University Education In A Society In Constant Transition” he delivered at the Federal University, Lokoja at the weekend.
The Guest Lecturer was of the opinion that research universities if realised will go a long way in ensuring that the nation have well-trained PhDs.
He gave an assurance that for University Education to have meaningful impact in the society; “We must continue to link and contextualize our education, generally and specifically. University education needs to reflect our sociocultural space, lest they become irrelevant.
“Given where we are now, we must engage vigorously in cutting-edge research at our university. The effort by TETFUND to help the nation arrive at a certain research policy destination is encouraging. A National Research Development Policy is worthwhile. We must develop in that direction for a National Research Policy”
He also called for adequate funding of education, especially tertiary education stressing that the future of the nation’s education lies in the hands of storyteller in the humanities, where all the scientific and technological advancements will be given expression in human and humane values.
In his opening speech, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi described the Convocation Lecture as very significant in reflecting upon the transformative power of education in a society that is in constant transition.
Professor Akinwumi also described education as the cornerstone of societal development and progress hence the effort of the University Management to be at the forefront of nurturing and equipping young minds to meet the challenges of ever-evolving world.
He commended Professor Olu Obafemi’s lecture topic as it shed light on how we, as university, can continue to evolve, innovate, and prepare students to thrive in a competitive world.
The Vice Chancellor restated his resolve in providing conducive environment where learning, critical thinking, and discovery will take the stage.
