President Bola Tinubu has charged Nigerian universities to embark on innovative research that can help boost production and diversify the nation’s economy.
Tinubu gave the charge in Nsukka on Saturday during the 53rd convocation of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), while delivering his address as the visitor of the institution.
The convocation was for the conferment of Postgraduate Diplomas, Higher Degrees, Title of Professor Emeritus and Award of Honorary Degrees.
The president, who was represented by Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, said that universities should leverage the opportunity that abound in innovation and to help turn around the nation’s economy.
“It is now common knowledge that research and innovation can grow the economy of a country faster than mineral deposits.
“I challenge all scholars in this university and other universities to embark on the specific innovative research that can help boost production and diversify our economy.
“As one of the premier universities, the UNN is expected to lead the way in this important quest for all-round excellence.
“I also challenge our universities to continue to emphasize training in entrepreneurship so that these graduates can become job creators, instead of perennial job seekers.
“I have no doubt that Nigerian universities are very much able to find lasting solutions to problems faced by the country,” he said.
The president, who acknowledged that the educational system in the country required urgent reform, promised that his administration was giving it much-needed attention.
“The administration recognised, quite early in its tenure, that the system was in urgent need of reforms at various levels such as Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary.
“Some of the issues are being addressed at different levels, but a lot needs to be done.
“The funding needed to revitalize the education system is much. It is, therefore, expedient that all hands must be on deck to assist the education sector,” he said.
In a remark, Prof. Polycarp Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of UNN, while congratulating the graduates, said “You have joined the league of men and women who make our university continually blaze the trail in learning and Innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
“We celebrate your doggedness, and the strength of character that have led to this fulfilment of dreams.” he said
Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State, and Pastor Jerry Eze, the founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International, were honoured with Honorary Degrees of ‘Doctor of Law’ and ‘Doctor of Divinity’, respectively.
Edo State Gov. Monday Okpebholo, HRH Igwe Samuel Asadu, Chairman, Enugu State of traditional rulers, UNN council members, were among dignitaries that attended the occasion.
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