By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Academics and Research Fellows have been reminded that while the pursuit of innovation is crucial, it is the integrity of the processes and the strength of their relationships that will ensure lasting impact.
The assertion was made in a goodwill message delivered by the Vice Chancellor of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, Professor Ibrahim Hassan Garba at a Workshop on Bio-Silica Nanotechnology Research and Application organized by the Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology of the University in partnership with Royal Academy of Engineering held on Thursday.
Represented by Prof. S.U. Kunya, DVC Academics, the Vice-Chancellor of the University at the workshop stating that, “Equally, fostering harmonious relationships within our academic and professional communities is essential to achieving success. Collaboration and cooperation are key to advancing knowledge.”
He added that, “The sharing of ideas, resources, and expertise between departments, institutions, and even across borders strengthens the fabric of research and innovation. It is imperative that we work together in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding, where diversity of thought and approach is valued, and where our collective efforts are aligned toward common goals.”
Ibrahim Hassan Garba stressed that,”This workshop presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of cutting-edge research and practical application, particularly in the field of nanotechnology—a domain that holds vast potential to shape the future of various industries and contribute to the well-being of humanity.”
“As we gather here, it is important to reflect not only on the innovative breakthroughs that we aim to achieve but also on the processes and relationships that underpin this collective endeavor,” he added.
The VC further stated that, “In the pursuit of knowledge, we must always ensure that we adhere to the principles of due process in all aspects of our research and application. This means maintaining high ethical standards, rigorously following scientific protocols, and ensuring transparency and accountability at every stage.”
He also stated that,”It is only through these practices that we can ensure the reliability and credibility of our work, fostering trust among our peers and stakeholders.”
He further added that, “Let us strive to be not only pioneers in science and technology but also exemplars of professionalism, collaboration, and ethical responsibility.”
Ibrahim Hassan Garba concluded stating that, “I look forward to the fruitful discussions and the exciting possibilities that will emerge from this workshop. Together, let us chart a path toward a future where bio-silica nanotechnology can be harnessed to its fullest potential, benefiting society at large.”
Earlier in his welcome speech for the RAEng-HEPSSA Knowledge-Sharing Workshop by the ATBU Spoke University Project Lead, Prof. Robinson I. Ejila, stated that the gathering represented an exciting opportunity to converge expertise, vision, and shared purpose in pursuit of our collective commitment to harnessing innovations in sustainable nanomaterial technologies.
According to him, “Our project is a beacon of hope, leveraging the abundant and renewable resource of rice husk and other bio-sources to create cutting-edge nanomaterials. These materials have the potential to revolutionize sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and energy. But beyond the scientific advancements, this project is about empowering communities and driving economic growth.”
He stressed that,”This initiative forms part of the broader Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa (HEPSSA) program. At its core, the HEPSSA program seeks to strengthen higher education systems in sub-Saharan Africa, equipping institutions to produce engineers with the requisite knowledge and skills to address both local and global challenges.”
Robison Ejila added that,”Our role, as esteemed spoke partners in this project, is vital to the success of this endeavor. The project operates within the framework of a Hub and Spoke topology, where collaboration is paramount. Through the integration of hub universities, spoke institutions, industry stakeholders, and UK academic collaborators, we aim to foster a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange, shared learning, and impactful outcomes.”
“Our project is anchored by Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Uganda as the Hub University, alongside Co-applicant and Spoke Universities including Makerere University, Uganda; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Nigeria, and the University of Namibia. In this partnership, these institutions bring a wealth of expertise and regional representation that enriches our collective efforts,” he explained.
He added that,”Imperial College, London, our UK-based partner, plays a pivotal role in facilitating collaborative frameworks and ensuring global best practices. The Nigerian Army Special Vehicle Plant (NASVP) serves as an Industry Partner, underscoring the crucial link between academia and industry in addressing real-world challenges.”
The Project Lead added that,”This collaboration is driven by a shared aspiration to create a sustainable future. By combining rigorous research, comprehensive hands-on training, and extensive knowledge exchange, we aim to empower the next generation of scientists and engineers.They will be equipped not only to contribute to scientific advancement but also to address the broader economic and social challenges of our time.”
He added that the partnership is a powerful alliance pointing out that together, and with the support of other critical stakeholders, ATBU seek to establish a world-class research center to foster innovation and collaboration in nanomaterial research and development, develop a skilled workforce to drive technological advancements in nanomaterials and nanoscience and promote sustainable development by addressing real-world problems.
These objectives are meticulously structured to ensure impactful outcomes such as tailered training programs, practical workshops, and meaningful students and Staff development opportunities.
According to him, the anticipated outputs from the research center would include collaborative research projects, high-impact publications, intellectual property generation, research product commercialization, and strengthened industry-academia interactions, Furthermore, the project places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, particularly by actively promoting gender equity within the research ecosystem.
He stressed that, “Today’s workshop will serve as a critical platform bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders from academia, industry, and partner institutions to deliberate on implementation strategies and expected outcomes. We are quite enthusiastic about it! As you can see, the agenda is rich with incisive presentations on various applications of nanoparticles, which will be delivered by carefully selected facilitators renowned for their expertise.”
According to him,”Our ensuing discussions will also inform the development of policy briefs for collaborative nanotechnology programs and a proposal for a multidisciplinary nanotechnology research and development initiative. This effort is designed to integrate stakeholders from academia, industry, and government, ensuring that the outcomes of this project have a wide-reaching and transformative impact.”
“We firmly believe that the project will not only advance scientific frontiers but also contribute significantly to economic development and social progress. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, we hope to set the stage for enduring partnerships that will continue to yield impactful results long after this project’s conclusion,” he added.
Robinson Ejila then expressed gratitude to the Royal Academy of Engineering for their unwavering financial support, and partners from Uganda, Namibia, and United Kingdom, which has mode the project possible.
“I also extend heartfelt appreciation to Lt. Gen. 00 Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff for approving our collaboration with the NASVP – our industrial partner. We want to thank the Plant’s former Managing Director, Maj. Gen. AU Obiwulu, PhD and current Managing Director, Brig. Gen. AK Lawal for their steadfast support. I must also acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim H. Garba whose leadership and dedication as a seasoned researcher have created the enabling environment for this initiative to thrive. Finally, I extend my deepest thanks to our workshop facilitators, and participants whose diverse expertise and perspective will undoubtedly enrich our discussions today and the day after,” he concluded.
In a brief remarks, former Plant Managing Director of NASVP – industrial partner , Maj. Gen. AU Obiwulu, PhD commended the ATBU Faculty of Engineering for organizing the workshop saying that it will go a long way in discovering more use of Bio-Silica Nanotechnology materials at this time when the country needs such diversity.
