By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Rice husk, an abundant and renewable resource, has emerged as a key material in the development of bio-silica nanoparticles, which have transformative applications across agriculture, healthcare, energy, and more.
The disclosure was made during a Media briefing on Advancing Innovation Through Collaboration: The RAEng-HEPSSA Knowledge-Sharing Workshop” held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology.
Beyond their scientific value, these innovations promise to empower local communities, foster economic growth, and address pressing global challenges.
It was also stressed that the RAEng-HEPSSA Knowledge-Sharing Workshop on Bio-Silica Nanotechnology Research and Application represents a vital step forward in leveraging innovative technologies for sustainable development.
The ATBU Spoke University Project Lead, Prof. Robinson I. Ejila stated that the workshop was hosted by ATBU, Bauchi, under the Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa (HEPSSA) programme.
He stressed that, “This initiative brings together academia, industry, and government stakeholders to explore the vast potential of bio-silica nanoparticles derived from rice husks.
According to him,”This two-day workshop aims to harness collective expertise, foster cross-sector collaboration, and empower the next generation of scientists and engineers to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.”
The Project Leader stated that as a Framework for Impactful Collaboration
The HEPSSA program, spearheaded by the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng), is designed to strengthen higher education systems in sub-Saharan Africa by equipping institutions to produce engineers capable of addressing both local and global challenges.
He also stated that, “Within this framework, the hub-and-spoke model adopted for this initiative is particularly noteworthy. Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in Uganda serves as the hub institution, supported by spoke universities including Makerere University, the University of Namibia, and ATBU.”
This strategic collaboration also involves Imperial College London, ensuring global best practices and fostering the exchange of knowledge, while the Nigerian Army Special Vehicle Plant (NASVP) provides a critical link between academia and industry.
He stressed that, “Such partnerships highlight the workshop’s holistic approach to addressing real-world problems through rigorous research and practical solutions.”
According to him, the primary goals of this initiative include: Establishing a world-class research center to advance nanomaterial innovation through a network of collaborating Universities and Industries in sub-Saharan Africa.
It also include building a skilled workforce capable of driving technological advancements, promoting sustainable development by addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges.
It is also a Platform for Knowledge Exchange as the workshop agenda reflects a robust commitment to fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and sparking innovation.
Presentations from experts across diverse fields will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the technical, regulatory, and entrepreneurial dimensions of bio-silica nanotechnology.
Topics range from potential industrial and military applications to strategies for integrating nanotechnology research into ATBU’s innovation agenda.
Interactive sessions, including discussions on business models and environmental considerations, aim to bridge the gap between research and real-world application.
Moreover, the workshop will culminate in the generation of policy briefs and the development of a proposal for a multidisciplinary nanotechnology research program, ensuring that the initiative has lasting impact.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity in STEM.
A central pillar of this project is its emphasis on diversity and inclusion. By actively encouraging the participation of women and individuals with disabilities, the initiative seeks to close gender gaps and promote equity within the research ecosystem.
This focus aligns with broader global efforts to create a more inclusive scientific community, ensuring that innovation benefits all.
The outcomes of the project are poised to extend far beyond the duration of the workshop by establishing a collaborative research center, producing high-impact publications, and fostering stronger ties between academia and industry, the initiative aims to set the stage for sustained innovation.
Additionally, the project’s emphasis on intellectual property generation and the commercialization of research findings highlights its potential to contribute significantly to economic development.
The Commissioner asserted that the ambitious project would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Royal Academy of Engineering and the dedication of its partners. Special appreciation is extended to Prof. Ibrahim H. Garba, Vice-Chancellor of ATBU, for his visionary leadership, and to the leadership of NASVP for their steadfast commitment to bridging academia and industry.”
The RAEng-HEPSSA Knowledge-Sharing Workshop stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing scientific innovation and sustainable development.
By bringing together diverse stakeholders, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and addressing real-world challenges, this initiative underscores the transformative potential of nanotechnology.
As participants convene to share insights and forge partnerships, they lay the groundwork for a future where innovation drives progress and improves lives on a global scale.
Together, they exemplify a shared commitment to shaping a more sustainable and equitable world.
All thanks to the Royal Academy of Engineering,United Kingdom, Our partner Institutions, Industries and workshop facilitators.
