Focus research on  solution to  societal problem , Egbewole urges  PG students

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has urged postgraduate students of the institution to direct their research efforts towards addressing societal challenges.

Prof. Egbewole made this call last Monday (April 22, 2024) while declaring open the “POGSASS Research Training Workshop” organised by the Postgraduate Students Association (POGSA) at the Basement of the University Main Auditorium.

The Vice Chancellor, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research Technology and Innovation), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, explained the need for research outputs to contribute to solving pressing issues within the community, adding that commercialising research becomes significantly easier when it addresses tangible societal problems.

Acknowledging the economic realities of the country, Prof. Egbewole encouraged researchers to focus on areas where their expertise can make a meaningful difference.

He said that global recognition and university rankings increasingly hinge on the calibre of research produced by both the Faculty and students.

            While applauding the POGSSAS executives for the initiative, the Vice Chancellor said that the training was in line with the vision 1:10:500 of the present administration, adding that, “What you are doing is noble; we want it to become a regular practice, and we believe it will fast-track our progress.”

Highlighting the role of postgraduate students as the flagship of academic research, Prof. Egbewole shared his optimism about their potential to drive innovation and generate solutions to complex societal problems.

In his remarks, the Dean of the Postgraduate School, Prof. Bamidele Victor Owoyale, joined the Vice Chancellor to call on the postgraduate students of the institution to prioritise problem-solving in their communities through research endeavors.

While noting that, research output should transcend mere academic exercises, the Professor of Physiology underscored the importance of commercialising research outputs, noting that this approach aligns with the vision set forth by the Vice Chancellor, which is aimed at positioning the University as the premier institution in Nigeria.

Also acknowledging the contemporary economic realities, Honourable Mukthar Tolani Shagaya, a member of the House of Representatives from Kwara State, in his keynote address, explained the critical role that research plays in driving innovation and fostering economic growth.