Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, has taken the lead in promoting research synergy among tertiary institutions in Ebonyi State, as it hosted a one-day summit on Inter-University Collaboration, Access to TETFund National Research Fund, and Moving Research to Policy in Nigeria, on Thursday at Re-Meritona Hotel, Abakaliki.
The landmark event brought together principal officers, provosts, deans, and directors of research, ICT, and academic planning from universities and other tertiary institutions across the state.
In his welcome address, Vice Chancellor of DUFUHS, Prof. Jesse Uneke, said the summit was designed to strengthen academic collaboration and foster joint research efforts among Ebonyi universities.
“This summit is about building bridges. No university can thrive in isolation. By working together, we can access research funding beyond individual reach and generate evidence that directly informs policy,” Uneke stated.
He announced that the summit would become an annual event, with plans to include private universities in subsequent editions, adding that “this model can work and is good for our educational system.”
Guest speakers at the summit included Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, former Vice Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike; Prof. Akanerem Essien, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo; and Dr. Kamil Shoretire, Director of Health Research, Planning, and Statistics at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development.
They highlighted the importance of collaborative research, evidence-based policymaking, and greater access to TETFund grants as tools for national growth.
In their goodwill messages, the Vice Chancellors of Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Prof. Michael Awoke; University of Science and Technology, Oferekpe, Prof. Ernest Egba; and Aeronautics and Aerospace University, Ezzamgbo, Prof. Patrick Nwofe, commended Prof. Uneke’s initiative, describing it as visionary and timely.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Amari Omaka (SAN), and Prof. Nwogo Obasi, who represented the Secretary to the State Government, lauded DUFUHS for the initiative and reaffirmed the Nwifuru administration’s commitment to advancing tertiary education under the People’s Charter of Needs policy.
In his vote of thanks, DUFUHS Registrar, Mr. Vitalis Ofor, appreciated the speakers and participants, describing the summit as “enriching, impactful, and transformative.”
The summit ended with a joint resolution to strengthen academic partnerships, undertake joint research projects, and ensure that research outcomes inform practical policies for development in Ebonyi State and Nigeria at large.
