Calabar, Cross River State – The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, has emphasised the importance of research in socio-economic recovery.
Prof. Florence Obi made the emphasis at the ASUU Secretariat Complex, University of Calabar (UNICAL), during the 4th Nigerian Conference on Physical Sciences, organised by the Faculty of Physical Sciences under the theme ‘Research in Physical Sciences: A veritable Tool in National Socio-Economic Recovery’.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Linkages, and Collaborations, Prof. Peter Okafor, Prof. Obi urged participants to invest in quality research, focusing on local needs and addressing societal challenges.
She stated that Countries with strong physical sciences capabilities maintain global competitiveness, stressing that, research in Physical Sciences is what the country needs to boost development.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that academic programmes in the physical sciences are the foundation for development, innovation, and global competitiveness.
The UNICAL helmsman also emphasised the need, through the results of relevant research, to develop and change the mindset of youths to curb the ‘japa’ syndrome that has engulfed our society.
The Varsity administrator called for collective efforts from government, institutions, and family units to pursue quality research to meet our local needs.
The Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Ekaete Enang, thanked the Vice Chancellor for supporting the conference and highlighted the conference theme’s focus on addressing socio-economic challenges.
She said the emphasis was on how Physical Science tools should be used to address nagging issues and reset the nation on a pathway to lasting economic recovery.
Prof Ekaete Enang said the major purpose of research is to boost society by advancing knowledge through scientific studies.
According to her, research unveils new facts and gives new or more insights into known facts.
Prof Enang, who is the Chairman of the Committee of Deans at the University, stated that research should not only be geared towards climbing the professorial ladder but should also focus on tackling societal challenges that impede the growth of the economy.
The Keynote speaker, Prof. Godwin Udom of the University of Port Harcourt, emphasised the importance of research in driving socio-economic growth.
Udom, a Professor of Hydrogeology/ Engineering Geology said, “A country without meaningful research is like a moving car with deflated tyres.
“Research makes room for new technologies, procedures, and products that boost productivity and competitiveness.”
He described the theme as apt, saying, it is aimed at addressing contemporary issues in physical sciences.
Prof. Udom lauded the Vice-Chancellor for the achievements attained while also appealing to her to keep the flag flying as this will place UNICAL on the path of glory.
