Innovation, research critical to development – Obiano

Innovation, high quality research and entrepre­neurial skill have been described as veritable tools for economic empower­ment of a nation. Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano made this known at an international conference organized by the Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

The governor, represent­ed by the Commissioner for Environment, Beautifica­tion and Ecology, Engr. Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Ejikeme, in his speech called on entre­preneurs, engineers and the society to contribute sig­nificantly towards improv­ing the sustainability of the economy through efficient and effective planning, cre­ativity, increased research, technology and innovation in order to move the coun­try to greater heights.

Also at the occasion, the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. Dave Umahi, represented by the Commissioner of Education, Prof. John U. Eke while speaking on the theme of the conference, “Commercializing Engi­neering for Diversification in a Developing Economy: Bridging Town and Gown” stressed that engineers are solution makers and as such should play the lead role. He called on engineers to rise up to the challenges of the society and say no to unemployment.

Earlier in his speech, while declaring the 2016 conference open, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph E. Ahaneku, emphasized that science and technol­ogy are the driving force for development. He there­fore called on the Faculty to take its rightful place in the area of development by demonstrating capabilities and competences.

He expressed optimism that this year’s internation­al conference will throw up bright ideas on how researches and ideas gen­erated by engineers and research centres will make positive impact on diver­sification efforts in the na­tional economics hence bridging the gap between town and gown.

The Dean, Faculty of Engineering Prof. C. C. Ihueze in his address ex­pressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for the opportunity of hosting the conference, his support and assistance to the Faculty. He commended members of the conference organizing committee for their hard work and effort in planning and coordinating the event.

The conference was at­tended by staff and stu­dents of the university as well as researchers around the globe.