By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale has implored all stakeholders to ensure that the town-gown gap is bridged for societal advancement and development at the local and national levels.
He gave the charge at the formal opening of the 2-day University of Ibadan/DAWN Commission organised Research and Development Fair (RESDEV) in Ibadan.
He was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, who also delivered his address.
Professor Adebowale said it was disheartening that many quality research conducted by seasoned academics/researchers ended up on the shelves without addressing the needs of the society or the objectives of conducting them.
He said the RESDEV was an initiative of the UI Senate to promote the spirit of research and discovery and to contribute to national and global development through creativity and innovation.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose noted that no single actor has the all-encompassing knowledge, overview, information, or resources to solve complex and diversified problems.
She described University of Ibadan as a place where knowledge is not only sought and cultivated, but where ideas are nurtured and transformed into tangible solutions that shape society and industries.
Professor Bamgbose said the fair would help to re-engage the University with surrounding communities, to bridge gaps, and to open new doors of opportunities.
She affirmed that the University of Ibadan was committed to making meaningful contributions to society and industry, adding that the RESDEV fair was a tangible manifestation of that commitment.
She said the University of Ibadan had been at the forefront of groundbreaking research, academic excellence, and social progress.
The Director General of the DAWN Commission, Dr Oluseye Oyeleye as well as the Co- Chairman of the RESDEV organising Committee, Dr A. K. Olaifa also delivered addresses.
A former Governor of Oyo State, General Oladayo Popoola (Rtd) was Chairman at the opening ceremony.
The Special Guests of Honour were, a former Nigerian Ambassador to The Philippines, (Dr) Yemi Farounbi and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chairman and CEO Jus Partners, Mr Abiodun Adediran who was represented by Mr Idowu Salami.
The Keynote Address was delivered by the Chief Operations Officer of Halogen Security, Dr Adebowale Adeagbo, while a goodwill message was delivered on behalf of Access Bank by Mr Akinyemi Fawibe.
The opening ceremony was witnessed by members of the University community, senior students of Leadcity International School, Jericho, Ibadan; Emmanuel College Grammar School, Orita UI, Ibadan; International School, University of Ibadan; and Abadina Grammar School, University of Ibadan as well as other stakeholders.
The various faculties, departments, centres, and institutes of the University and other innovators displayed their goods and services at the exhibition.
Light musical entertainment was provided by the Alajota group and students of the Faculty of Law who presented a Moot and Mock court session.
The theme of this year’s Fair, the 4th in the series is UI@75: Re- engaging the University for society and Industry.
