By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olapegba has called for what he described as ‘functional partnerships’ between government ministries and the universities in order to proffer solutions to natural resources problems.
He made this call on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale while receiving the organizers of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources’ maiden International Conference during a courtesy visit.
Professor Olapegba advocated a relationship between the ministries and the academia such that gives the ministries direct access to researchers in the universities, adding that the researchers have the wealth of experience that industry players could harness to solve problems, instead of engaging foreign consultants or consultants outside universities.
He said the academia has massive potential, advising researchers not to work in silos but to reach out and make a positive impact on the outside world.
He asserted that the University of Ibadan is performing well in terms of research and collaborations, which could be of tremendous gain to ministries and industry experts.
He had earlier commended the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources for gaining tremendous traction in its few years of existence, attracting visibility to the university, as evidenced by the international conference.
The DVC said that the university is proud of the faculty and encouraged it to keep the standard high always and continue in the tradition of the international conference.
The Local Organising Committee chair, Dr Siyanbola Omitoyin had earlier stated that the conference tagged “Renewable 2025” with the theme: “Renewable Natural Resources Management and Use: A Path to Sustainable Development” was hybrid in nature and participants have been drawn from countries across Africa.
