AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Some prominent academics across Africa have highlighted the pivotal role of research as a vital tool for driving development across various sectors in Africa.
While speaking at the inaugural Pan African University (PAU) International Conference on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the University of Ibadan, the experts stressed the need to prioritize research as a tool for sustainable growth on the continent.
Professor Matthew Abatan, the pioneer Director of the Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute (PAULESI), applauded the initiative, describing it as a platform for young scientists to showcase innovative research.
“This conference is immensely valuable because it provides opportunities for young researchers in fields such as health sciences, geosciences, genomics, and agriculture—key areas that align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” he said. He emphasized the need for governments to create conducive environments for researchers, noting that inadequate support stifles innovation across the continent.
“The issue of climate change, for instance, is critical for Africa, and unless we take research seriously, progress will be slow,” Abatan warned.
Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Ibadan, highlighted the conference as a milestone for collaboration among PAU’s four institutes. “This is the first time researchers from all four institutions are coming together. Such collaborations are crucial for cross-disciplinary innovation and forging stronger links between academia and industry,” she said.
Dr. Ludwana Gabsa, Deputy Director and Interim Director of the Pan African University Institute of Governance, Humanities, and Social Sciences (PAUGHSS) in Cameroon, emphasized the integrative potential of the event. “This conference fosters a united approach to addressing African challenges. By pooling research from across the continent and the diaspora, we can develop innovative policies and solutions,” she stated.
Similarly, Professor Losenge Turoop of the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation (PAUSTI) in Kenya underscored the importance of African-driven solutions. “This platform allows us to share information and data, enabling us to collectively address Africa’s challenges with homegrown solutions,” he said, urging participants to focus on research that directly benefits African society and industries.
Professor Ayodeji Samson Ogunjuyigbe, the Provost of the Postgraduate College at the University of Ibadan, described the conference as a significant opportunity for networking and skill development. “It not only meets academic requirements for graduation but also equips students with confidence, exposure, and opportunities to collaborate with peers in their research areas,” he explained.
In his keynote address, PAU Rector Professor Jean Koulidiati highlighted the conference’s role in fostering inclusive growth and development. He outlined PAU’s dedication to using research and innovation to tackle Africa’s pressing challenges in science, technology, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and governance. “This event aims to reshape Africa’s socio-economic landscape by harnessing the transformative power of innovative research,” Koulidiati stated.
The Rector also emphasized the conference’s alignment with Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for socio-economic transformation. “By enabling collaboration and promoting high-quality research, this conference takes a crucial step towards achieving ‘The Africa We Want,’” he added.
Prof. Michael Oladunjoye, Deputy Director of PAULESI, reiterated the conference’s importance in repositioning Africa on the global development stage. “To realize the vision of Agenda 2063, we must prioritize economic diversification, job creation, poverty eradication, and improved governance,” he said.
The three-day conference serves as a premier platform for advancing collaborative research and innovation, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at transforming Africa into a hub of progress and prosperity.
