The International Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Research, University of Uyo in her bid to strengthen collaboration with industries in Akwa Ibom State has instituted a University- Industry Engagement Forum. The maiden edition of the programme was held on Tuesday February 11, 2020 at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Permanent Site Campus, University of Uyo. The programme which was jointly organised with the Department of Chemistry had the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Greenwell Technologies Limited, producers of NPK fertiliser, Engr. Johnny S. Udo on the hot seat to share thoughts on some burning issues regarding University -Industry cooperation. Engr Udo gave a company presentation and then responded to numerous questions from the academic community bordering on research opportunities, funding for research, student industry work experience, challenges of industries in an emerging economy with special focus on fertiliser production, alternative fertilizer, feedstock, power, employability of graduates among several topical issues.
In her opening remarks, the Director, ICEESR UNIUYO Dr. Edu Inam intimated the audience on the need for University and industry collaboration in research and development to ensure sustainability, relevance and societal impact. In her remarks, the Acting Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr. Imaobong Udousoro urged the postgraduate student to be innovative in their researches which should be towards solving industry challenges. The forum was chaired by the Dean, Faculty of Science, Professor Idara O. Akpabio who was ably represented by Professor Joseph Essien and had in attendance the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Godwin Udom. Other prominent attendees included Professor Lawrence Etim (Immediate past Dean, Postgraduate School), Professor Ukana Akpabio, Professor Bassey Antia (Director, SERVICOM), Dr. Oboh (Vice Dean, Faculty of Engineering), Dr. Jame Asuquo, Dr. Naomi Asamudo, Dr. Emmanuel Essien and several senior academic staff from departments of Chemistry, Microbiology as well as postgraduate students.
L-R: Dr. James Asuquo, Prof. U. D. Akpabio, Bar. Ekemini Ekpo, Prof. Lawrence Etim, Dr. Emmanuel Essien, Engr. Johnny Udo, Prof. Joseph Essien, Dr. Edu Inam, Prof. Godwin Udo and Dr. Evans Udofia
At the end of the interactive session, Engr Udo promised to donate 50 bags of fertiliser and seedling to support the University of Uyo Faculty of Agriculture Farm. The event was a success, and attendees expressed appreciations to ICEESR UNIUYO for this laudable initiative.