By Ahmed Ahmed
Prof. Ibrahim Garba, the Vice Chancellor, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) has called for effective collaboration among academics and other research professional bodies to ensure advancement in knowledge and innovation.
He made the call in Bauchi on Friday during a two-day Knowledge-sharing 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.
Represented by Prof. Sani Kunya, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, ATBU, Garba said it is through proper collaboration among these professional bodies that more innovative inventions that would further project Nigeria and help in tackling economic problems among others could be made.
“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.
“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. It is only through these practices that we can ensure the reliability and credibility of our work, fostering trust among our peers and stakeholders.
“Equally, fostering harmonious relationships within our academic and professional communities is essential to achieving success. Collaboration and cooperation are key to advancing knowledge and innovation.
“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,” he said.
The VC explained that the 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.
Earlier speaking, ATBU Spoke University Project Lead, Prof. Robinson Ejila, said that the gathering represented an exciting opportunity to converge expertise, vision, and shared purpose in pursuit of collective commitment to harnessing innovations in sustainable nanomaterial technologies.
He said “our project is a beacon of hope, leveraging the abundant and renewable resources of rice husks 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.
“This initiative forms part of the broader Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa program.
“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”.
