Town and Gown in Sync: Transforming the Nation!

Speech by Babs Omotowa at Rivers State University on Friday, 8th November 2024

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Salutation

The Executive Governor of River State, HE Sir Siminlayi Fubara, GSSRS

Deputy Governor, River State, Prof Ngozi Odu, DSSRS

Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, RSU, Hon Justice Mary Ukaego Peter Odilli, CFR, DSSRS, JSC (Rtd)

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nlerum Sunday Okogbule, DSSRS, FCIArb

The Special Guest of Honour, HRM Dr Edmund Dakoru, King of Nembe Kingdom

Principal Staff Officers of the University

Distinguished ladies and Gentlemen,

Please permit me to follow the established protocol.

It is an honor and a privilege to be a Special Guest Speaker today.

This is my first visit to Rivers State University (RSU), and I want to commend the State Government and the university staff for their dedication since the institution's founding in 1980, recognizing that its origins trace back to the Rivers State College of Technology, established in 1972. Furthermore, I understand that the current Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, along with former Governors Seriake Dickson and Nyesom Wike, as well as former Ministers Odein Ajumogobia, Usani Usani, and Minister Heineken Lokpobiri, are all distinguished alumni of this university. Rivers State University is a breeding ground for individuals of “timber and caliber,” as the late Dr. K.O. Mbadiwe will say.

Over the past 35 years, my career has traversed both industry and academia. I commenced as a college educator in 1988, transitioned to Shell in 1993, joined NLNG in 2012, and subsequently worked at Shell’s headquarters in the Netherlands before assuming my current position as President of the Nigerian University of Technology and Management.

When Dr. Amadi contacted me with a request: “Could you speak at RSU on the necessity for closer collaboration between academia and industry?” there was only one response. Drawing from my extensive experience in industry and academia, I recognize this as an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue. Too often, I have observed commentators addressing societal issues only to express frustration or assign blame to others. What is less frequently seen is the formulation of solutions. It is imperative that we shift our focus from lamenting the challenges faced in Nigeria to fostering collaborative efforts aimed at resolving them. A citadel of learning serves as an ideal venue for such endeavors.

Within the energy sector, I appreciated the significance of practical, results-oriented strategies that had a tangible impact on people's lives. In the academic sphere, I have witnessed the transformative power of research, which, when effectively harnessed, can address societal challenges. The relationship between academia and industry is mutually beneficial, and this unique intersection is crucial for tackling local, national, and global challenges. I therefore share in the commitment to bridge the gap between these spheres for the advancement of our nation.

What is the Town-Gown?

The term "Town-Gown" encapsulates the dynamic relationship between universities (the "Gown") and the surrounding communities, industries, and society at large (the "Town"). This concept emphasizes that academic institutions are not merely isolated entities but are essential players in the economic, social, and cultural landscape of their localities, as well as globally. In this partnership, the "Gown" provides intellectual assets such as talent, research, innovation, and knowledge generation, while the "Town" presents real-world challenges and opportunities for experiential learning. When this relationship functions optimally, both parties work together to address common issues, resulting in mutually advantageous solutions that enhance societal well-being.

The interplay between academia (the "Gown") and industry (the "Town") has been a significant subject in the fields of development economics and educational reform, with various studies highlighting that such partnerships are crucial for national advancement and innovation. Nevertheless, in numerous countries, including Nigeria, this relationship is often underexploited. Closing this gap is vital not only for improving the quality of research and innovation but also for fostering economic development, social advancement, and global competitiveness.

In various regions, including the United States and Europe, universities and industries have established effective partnerships that drive national advancement. These collaborations not only assist industries in addressing critical challenges but also provide academia with research funding. By partnering with universities, industries gain access to talents, innovative ideas, and cutting-edge technologies that enhance their competitiveness.

In contrast, Nigeria's experience with such collaborations has not been as fruitful. Nigerian universities frequently struggle to engage with industries in a substantial manner. This challenge is exacerbated by the low investment in research. A survey by the National Bureau of Statistics (2020) revealed that Nigeria allocates less than 0.2% of its GDP to research, a figure that falls well below the recommended 1-2% for developing countries. This lack of financial support severely restricts universities' capacity to engage in impactful research and innovation that could propel national development.

An obstacle to enhancing town-gown collaborations in Nigeria is the insufficient communication and trust between academic institutions and industry. Many industries perceive academic research as overly theoretical and lacking practical relevance, while academics often regard industries as primarily focused on profit, neglecting their potential social contributions. This divergence in interests and expectations has impeded the establishment of a strong collaborative framework.

Furthermore, industries frequently hesitate to invest in university research, expressing concerns regarding the quality and applicability of the research. Merely 10% of Nigerian industries participate in research collaborations with universities, in stark contrast to 60% in more developed countries.

For effective town-gown collaborations, it is essential for industries to take a more proactive stance in fostering research and innovation. This involvement should encompass not only the provision of financial support for academic research but also active participation with universities to formulate research agendas that correspond with industry requirements. Purdue University (2020) emphasizes that when industries invest in university research, they gain access to pioneering innovations that can enhance their competitive position in the global marketplace.

However, industries must also be prepared to hold academic institutions accountable for the quality and applicability of their research. This can be facilitated through the creation of advisory boards that consist of members from both academia and industry, collaborating to establish research priorities and oversee progress. Whilst such frameworks are already operational in certain Nigerian universities, there is a need for them to be reinforced and broadened to encompass a wider array of industries.

As Chinua Achebe rightly pointed out, “The world is like a masquerade dancing. If you want to see it well, you do not stand in one place.” This statement underscores the notion that while there has been some degree of collaboration between the academic and local communities in Nigeria over the years, the critical question remains: has this collaboration effectively harnessed its potential? Has it adequately addressed the fundamental issues impacting the lives of Nigerians?

To illustrate this point, NLNG established a science prize in 2004, currently valued at $100,000. However, there were five instances (2005, 2007, 2011, 2012, 2016) when NLNG was unable to award any prizes due to the subpar quality of research emanating from Nigerian universities. It became evident that not only was the quality of research subpar, but there was also a disconnect between academic inquiries and the pressing issues faced by society. Consequently, NLNG adopted a more focused approach, identifying specific societal challenges and inviting researchers to address them in subsequent cycles. Despite this re-engineering, Nigerian universities have not emerged as successful in most cases. For instance, last year’s theme was healthcare therapy, which was awarded to Prof. Hippolite Amadi, a Nigerian based at Imperial College in London. This year’s topic was Greenhouse Emission Control, awarded to Prof. Eni Oko from Newcastle University, Olajide Otitoju, and Prof. Wang from the University of Sheffield. Notably, while there were two Nigerians among the winners, none were affiliated with Nigerian universities. Our able Vice Chancellor, I hope you can challenge the RSU academic community on this, and hope we can look forward to a future where research from RSU will be a winner of this coveted prize.

Ideally, academia and industry should function as a conduit for bridging research and the resolution of real-world challenges. However, the current landscape in Nigeria often reveals a considerable divide between academic research and the immediate needs of society. It is glaring, as evidenced by a wide array of unresolved issues that have plagued the country for many years. Let me elaborate on just 5 examples;

Oil Pollution: For decades, the Niger Delta has suffered from the effects of oil pollution, resulting in environmental degradation and the erosion of livelihoods. Although Nigerian universities have conducted research on the impacts of oil spills and potential pollution control strategies, there is a notable lack of effective collaboration between these institutions and oil companies to address the issue. A pertinent example is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) study of the Ogoni oil spill, which culminated in a 2011 report detailing the extensive environmental damage from years of oil spills. This report proposed a comprehensive plan for restoration, recommending an initial funding of $1 billion and emphasizing the necessity for a 30-year long-term remediation strategy.

However, a significant critique of this initiative is the insufficient involvement of Nigerian universities in both the study and the remediation efforts. The UNEP report predominantly drew on the expertise of international specialists, failing to adequately engage Nigerian universities to leverage their knowledge.

Furthermore, the clean-up efforts in Ogoni, which commenced years after the report was published, demonstrate a lack of robust partnerships with Nigerian universities. While some local experts participate in individual capacities, the broader integration of Nigerian universities is lacking. Their involvement could have ensured that their intellectual resources were utilized effectively and that the environmental insights and methodologies derived from the clean-up were preserved for future research purposes. This represents a significant missed opportunity.

This observation should not be construed as a critique of Nigerian universities, as the primary responsibility, in this instance, primarily lies with the government and industry. However, the lost opportunities underscore the ineffective relationship between academia and industry.

Food: Nigeria has faced persistent challenges related to food scarcity, a situation worsened by outdated farming methods and a lack of proper storage. Over the years, institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan have investigated sustainable agricultural techniques, innovative seed technologies, and resilient crops. However, a significant gap persists between these academic advancements and their application in farming communities, resulting in ongoing deficiencies in food production.

In contrast, Malaysia successfully adopted palm seedlings from Nigeria and, through effective partnerships between universities and industry, emerged as one of the leading producers of palm oil globally, leaving Nigeria at a disadvantage. Another example is Israel, which has leveraged university research for precision agriculture, utilizing drone technology, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to determine the precise water and fertilizer needs of each plant. Despite its relatively small land area of 21 square kilometers, Israel exports a considerable volume of fresh produce. In comparison, Rivers State, where we currently are, covers 11.07 square kilometers, which is half the size of Israel. Nigeria, with a land area of approximately 924 square kilometers—44 times that of Israel—continues to be a major food importer.

I recently visited a university located in the middle belt region of Nigeria, encompassing an area of 15,000 hectares. As I navigated through this extensive land, I observed primarily bush on both sides of the road, which is suitable for agriculture. It appeared that less than 20% of the area had been developed for administrative offices, classrooms, laboratories, and student accommodations. This led me to question why such a significant portion of land has remained underutilized since 1975, a span of 50 years. Yet, this institution boasts a Faculty of Agriculture staffed by numerous professors and senior lecturers specializing in various agricultural disciplines, including crop production, forest resource management, animal husbandry, aquaculture, and fisheries. One would have expected that the university would leverage its agricultural faculty to implement large-scale mechanized farming and attract processing industries to the campus, fostering a thriving value chain between the university and the surrounding community. These represent significant missed opportunities. Some may contend that financial resources are necessary for land cultivation and crop planting. While I concur, it is essential to consider how others have successfully navigated these challenges. Here, labor is relatively inexpensive, and the land has already been acquired. What is required is the development of strategic models, the attraction of investors, and the determination to execute. This underscores the relevance of this discussion.

Housing: Nigeria holds the distinction of having the largest homeless population globally, with over 24 million individuals lacking access to adequate housing. The nation is currently confronted with a housing shortfall, estimated to exceed 20 million units, exacerbated by a burgeoning population and swift urbanization. Have architectural and urban planning programs within Nigerian universities developed affordable housing solutions and investigated low-cost construction methodologies? If so, have these innovations been effectively implemented on a larger scale? It is essential that academic research in this domain is integrated with government housing policies and the initiatives of private-sector developers. To what extent are Nigerian universities engaged in government housing and urban planning policies? How actively do they participate in the execution, quality assurance, and construction methods?

Road: The substantial high cost of road construction and the persistent deterioration of Nigeria's road infrastructure represent a critical issue for which academic institutions could offer solutions. Where are the research publications from civil engineering departments in Nigerian universities that focus on cost-effective, sustainable road construction and alternative materials? Where are the initiatives for collaboration with construction companies and government road agencies? Research that has the potential to enhance the durability and quality of Nigeria's roads often remains unpublished in academic journals instead of being utilized as a basis for public infrastructure initiatives. The Niger Delta region’s 188km East-West Road has posed significant difficulties for many years; one must question the role universities could have played in collaboration with the government to expedite the completion of this road.

Electricity: The electricity issues in Nigeria are well-known, with only 45% of the population enjoying reliable power access. What academic research exists on energy generation, grid optimization, and energy-efficient technologies? Where is the partnership with power generation and distribution companies? Have Nigerian universities succeeded in developing more effective and affordable renewable energy technologies—such as solar and biomass systems— to address the power shortages? What is the role of academia in tackling this issue?

The example of Professor Nnaji, the creator of the E-design concept, who returned from the University of Massachusetts, USA is one to emulate. His innovative integrated Geometric Power facility is currently generating 180MW of power in Aba. Where are the other similar novel power plants established by each university in every state, in partnership with industry?

It would be reasonable to anticipate that these institutions would investigate solar energy, particularly given the ample sunlight available. If universities were to undertake similar initiatives in partnership with industries, they could transform their research into viable energy solutions, benefiting not only themselves but also society at large. Rather than waiting for external assistance, they should actively utilize their expertise to attract investors, as exemplified by Prof. Nnaji.

Part of the essence of academia is to adapt, progress, and respond to societal changes. Research institutions are intended to act as guiding lights for identifying and resolving societal challenges, yet much of the research produced tends to remain within the confines of academic literature, failing to translate into practical solutions. It is my assertion that any academic research lacking real-world applicability represents a squandered intellectual resource, and any societal issue that has not been examined by academia signifies a shortcoming of academia and society.

Re-thinking our impact

The role of academia and industry must be contextualized within the evolving landscape of a global economy that is undergoing significant transformation. The contemporary world has increasingly integrated knowledge into economic frameworks. Traditionally, economies have been propelled by tangible sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and the technological revolution. These industries have been pivotal in driving development, particularly in Nigeria, where oil has historically served as the cornerstone of the economy. However, there has been a notable transition towards what is commonly termed the "Knowledge Economy," wherein value is derived from intellectual capital—encompassing ideas, innovation, and research—rather than from physical commodities.

In the Knowledge Economy, the new catalysts for growth include information technology, data analytics, artificial intelligence, research, innovation, and specialized expertise. Unlike oil, which is a limited resource, knowledge can be perpetually created and utilized to address challenges across various domains. This shift underscores the increasing importance of knowledge over traditional industries. As Bill Gates says, “The future belongs to those who can harness knowledge.”

Recent trends reinforce this, as the most highly valued companies are knowledge-based. These include Apple, Tesla, Amazon, and Meta, many of whom have market capitalization exceeding one trillion dollars, significantly surpassing that of the largest oil company, Saudi Aramco. Uber exemplifies a knowledge-driven enterprise that operates through proprietary software without owning vehicles. These companies thrive on knowledge and innovation—domains where academic institutions excel.

For Nigeria, the dependence on oil has led to considerable challenges, including environmental issues, and limited effects on employment and GDP growth. As the global energy paradigm shifts, Nigeria must evolve towards a future where intellectual capital takes precedence. This is particularly as the world shift away from fossils towards green energy. In this context, there is an urgency for knowledge-based solutions.

In this scenario, academia emerges as a vital cornerstone, with potential to spearhead the transformation of the nation. Universities are strategically positioned to cultivate human capital, conduct research, and develop technological innovations essential for economic growth. By promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating research, and equipping future leaders with critical thinking skills, academic institutions can significantly contribute to advancing Nigeria towards a knowledge-driven economy.

A well-nurtured "Town-Gown" relationship can be instrumental in devising sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s challenges. Academia must assume a leadership role in guiding Nigeria towards a knowledge-based future. By acknowledging its dual responsibility as a generator of knowledge and a catalyst for societal change, the "Gown" can empower the "Town" to achieve enduring economic, social, and environmental advancement. It is through this collaborative partnership that we can forge sustainable futures for our nation.

In developed nations, industries invest in university laboratories and research. Nigerian industries ought to support universities by financing research that can benefit their enterprises and the nation. Industries must acknowledge their responsibility to invest more in education. An example was the collaboration we did at NLNG in 2015, where we partnered with six universities to each establish $2 million engineering laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

Please permit me to digress for a minute to address an important issue. The current reliance on rote learning methods, characterized by memorization and repetition, prevalent in many of our universities, must be reformed to achieve the transformation we desire for our nation. Many graduates from Nigerian universities find themselves lacking in critical thinking and problem-solving skills, having spent their academic years engaged in one-sided instruction, with information flowing solely from educators to students. In large classes, often comprising hundreds or even thousands of students, meaningful interaction between teachers and students becomes a challenge. It is imperative that we revise this model, ensuring that class sizes are manageable to facilitate engagement through case studies, experiential learning, and discussions to enhance the capabilities of our graduates.

Showcasing the potential of the “Town-Gown” partnership

To illustrate the transformative potential of Town-own relationships, I will examine some examples globally and within Africa. These highlight how academic institutions, in conjunction with communities, can drive innovation and stimulate economic and societal growth.

1.    UK Universities, Astra Zeneca & GlaxoSmithKline - Covid vaccine

In November 2020, eleven months into COVID-19, a vaccine was developed through the collaboration between the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca. This partnership exemplified the power of Town-Gown collaboration, enabling society to navigate one of the most formidable challenges of a generation. It serves as a testament to the efficacy of industry-academic alliances, merging pioneering university research with industrial know-how, ultimately contributing to a more resilient world.

Additionally, in 2022, the University of Cambridge, AstraZeneca, and GlaxoSmithKline joined forces in a £42 million initiative aimed at creating a "future-proof" COVID-19 vaccine. The root of this partnership can be traced to the establishment of the Cambridge Science Park in 1970. The park is home to 5,000 technology and life sciences companies, many of which are spin-offs from university research, including AstraZeneca.

2.    Stanford and Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is intricately linked to Stanford’s strategy to nurture a symbiotic relationship between it and the surrounding community. In the 1930s, Frederick Terman, a Stanford professor, motivated his students to establish their own enterprises instead of pursuing careers with prominent firms. He played a pivotal role in guiding individuals such as William Hewlett and David Packard, who went on to create Hewlett-Packard.

In the 1950s, Stanford further stimulated this innovation spirit by leasing land for the Stanford Industrial Park, which attracted technology firms eager to engage with university researchers. This included companies like Google, Apple, Intel, and Cisco, which were either founded by or influenced by Stanford graduates. This synergy has generated trillions of dollars in economic value, established Silicon Valley as a global leader in technology, and revolutionized various industries across the globe.

3. Harvard, MIT, and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The relationship between Cambridge and its prestigious institutions - Harvard and MIT - has been pivotal in driving economic development within the area. An example is the Harvard Innovation Labs (i-Lab), which offers students and community members resources, mentorship, and support to transform their entrepreneurial concepts into successful enterprises. In addition, Kendall Square, situated next to MIT, hosts over 150 biotech and pharmaceutical firms, many of which have been directly shaped by the research and talent cultivated at MIT and Harvard.

The economic impact of these institutions on Cambridge is significant. Estimates indicate that Harvard and MIT collectively contribute approximately $15 billion to the local economy each year. Their presence has attracted major corporations such as Google, Amazon, and Biogen. This dynamic town-gown relationship cultivates a vibrant business landscape and enriches the cultural and social dimensions of Cambridge.

4. Leiden University and Leiden, Netherlands

Leiden University has cultivated a robust partnership with the city of Leiden in the domains of life sciences and medical research. Leiden Bio Science Park is one of the largest life science clusters in Europe, accommodating 150 companies, research entities, and academic spin-offs. The Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) is integral to this partnership, facilitating Cell advancements in medical research. For instance, in the area of Stem Research, researchers in Leiden have made significant strides in treatments for ailments such as Parkinson's disease. In the field of Biopharmaceuticals, several biotech firms have successfully created monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins for various medical conditions.

These successful partnership models are also attainable within our own contexts in Africa. Let me share a few examples:

1. Stellenbosch University (S/Africa) - Wine Industry Innovations:

Stellenbosch University has played a crucial role in South Africa's wine sector. Through research on grape growing and winemaking methods, the university has enhanced the quality and quantity of wine production, thereby elevating South Africa's reputation as a prominent global wine exporter. The collaboration has ensured that South African wines remain competitive internationally, contributing R55 billion ($3.8 billion) to the nation's GDP in 2019. The industry’s value chain also supports 290,000 jobs, influenced by the innovations stemming from the university.

2. Makerere University (Uganda) – Makapads

Researchers at Makerere University have created Makapads, an affordable and biodegradable sanitary pad composed of papyrus and recycled paper. This innovation addresses environmental issues while also tackling menstrual hygiene, particularly in low-income communities. The university has successfully commercialized Makapads, ensuring their availability throughout East Africa at a significantly lower price. Economically, the production of Makapads has generated employment and invigorated the local economies. By offering affordable sanitary solutions, Makapads contribute to keeping girls in school, which yields long-term economic advantages.

3. University of Nairobi (Kenya) – Improved Maize Varieties:

The University of Nairobi has collaborated with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center to develop maize varieties that are resistant to drought. These varieties have been widely embraced by farmers throughout Kenya. These improved maize varieties have significantly enhanced agricultural resilience in the face of climate challenges and produced commercial success for the farm sector in East Africa.

What is noticeable amongst these initiatives are some common characteristics (1) Targeted Research on Societal challenges, (2) Interdisciplinary Collaboration, (3) Partnerships with Industry, (4) Modern laboratories, (5) Community Engagement, and (6) Measurable outcomes.

These global and African examples of collaboration between academia and industry underscore the significant potential of universities as drivers of innovation, economic development, and societal progress. These partnerships exemplify how academic institutions and industry can work together to tackle real-world issues. Universities should emphasize more on commercializing their intellectual property for their funding rather than depending on government funding for their operations.

RSU Example

Rivers State University (RSU) is uniquely positioned in this discussion. Firstly, RSU is the first-of-its-kind technical university in the Niger Delta region. Its location in Rivers State, a pivotal oil-producing area, underscores its significance, particularly given the region's substantial oil and gas reserves. The university's mission emphasizes the integration of science, technology, and innovation to tackle industrial and societal challenges, thereby establishing a unique identity within Nigeria.

Furthermore, RSU has undertaken impactful research and collaborations that demonstrate its dedication to addressing real-world challenges. For example, RSU has played a role in enhancing Nigeria's maritime sector through collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). With a focus on maritime safety, pollution management, and shipping logistics, RSU offered valuable insights to improve operations in Nigeria's coastal areas. Furthermore, RSU has engaged with local farmers to advance research in sustainable farming practices and agricultural technology. Notable areas of focus include mushroom cultivation, fisheries, feed milling, poultry, and pig farming.

However, there are a lot more opportunities to expand RSU’s impact, spanning from tackling societal needs to commercialization. Aligning research outcomes with real-world problems and partnering with industry will enhance RSU’s leadership. Examples include

1. Agriculture

RSU has the opportunity to enhance agricultural innovation by collaborating with local farmers and agribusinesses on sustainable farming practices utilizing readily available raw materials. Investigating crop varieties that are well-suited to the Niger Delta, along with the creation of value-added products (such as converting cassava into starch or flour), will significantly contribute to food security. The university's extensive land resources can be leveraged for agricultural research and commercial activities while bolstering the local economy.

An example is a group of students from Kabarak University in Kenya who developed a type of flour from grass to produce ugali, which is five times less expensive than that made from traditional maize. This innovative approach aimed to address food insecurity involved students from diverse academic backgrounds, including clinical medicine, computer science, economics, and finance. They utilized drought-resistant grasses such as Bermuda and Ryegrass, converting cellulose into amylose, a starch comparable to that found in maize.  

2. Clean Energy:

RSU may consider investigating renewable energy options, such as solar and wind power, to tackle electricity issues in the Niger Delta. Research into decentralized energy systems, like mini-grids, could offer affordable and clean energy solutions to local communities, thereby decreasing dependence on costly fossil fuels. An example is the University of Nairobi, which has worked alongside local farmers to advance biogas technology as an energy alternative. Through its research, the university created low-cost biogas digesters that transform organic waste into biogas for cooking and lighting. The initiative not only delivers economical energy but also addresses waste management challenges.

3. Security

RSU has the potential to collaborate with security agencies and the technology sector to create predictive policing tools and community-oriented security programs. Investigating local crime trends and utilizing artificial intelligence can significantly mitigate the increasing risks of kidnapping and banditry. A prominent example is the University of Cape Town (UCT), which has been a leader in employing technology to bolster security measures in South Africa, particularly in combating issues such as crime, including kidnapping and banditry.  

4. Public Health

RSU has the potential to focus on addressing diseases that are widespread in the Niger Delta, such as malaria and waterborne diseases. By partnering with health ministries and international organizations, the university could create initiatives to enhance access to healthcare services, improve sanitation, and promote preventive measures. For instance, The University of Ghana, Legon, has significantly contributed to tackling public health challenges in Ghana, especially concerning infectious diseases like malaria and waterborne illnesses.

Looking forward

With this initiative, Rivers State University (RSU) is positioned to redefine and enhance the relationship between the university and the community and help transform Nigeria. By addressing societal issues through meaningful research, innovation, and partnerships, RSU can make a significant impact. To achieve this vision, it is essential for RSU to capitalize on its distinctive academic strengths while drawing insights from global exemplars of university-community engagement.

I propose five strategies for RSU’s consideration in advancing the "town-gown" initiative.

1. Establish a Coordinating Town-Gown Council

A Town-Gown Council consisting of prominent university officials, industry leaders, government representatives, and community stakeholders. An established developmental agency, whether international or a reputable local entity, may be invited to serve as the secretariat, contributing specialized expertise. The council would undertake the following actions:

a). Annually identify a key societal issue and challenge the RSU academic community to explore innovative research solutions.

b).    Ensure the pursuit of concrete results, holding the research teams and the university accountable for their commitments.

c).     Seek funding from local and international players, particularly those interested in the identified strategic area. The council can approach international foundations, multinational corporations, international development agencies, NGOs, and organizations.

d).    Utilize the network of RSU alumni – Many hold leadership roles in major institutions, presenting an opportunity to leverage these connections for partnership and research support.

2. Establish an Entrepreneurship Centre

Establish an Entrepreneurship Centre dedicated to commercializing RSU research outputs. By offering startup funding, mentorship, and business development services, the university can empower students and community members to initiate ventures that contribute positively to society while generating revenue for the institution.

3. Leverage Existing Professorial Chairs

The university ought to leverage its existing partnerships, particularly with oil companies that support professorial chairs, to direct research initiatives toward addressing practical challenges.

• Broadening the focus of professorial chairs to encompass interdisciplinary research.
• Ensuring that research endeavors are focused on yielding practical results.
• Organizing annual forums where faculty and students can present research findings to industry leaders and industry representatives can share industry challenges.

4. Attracting companies to set up satellite offices on the campus or for the university to construct office complexes and lease floors to these companies. This shared facility model will facilitate regular interactions between academia and industry, allowing for the swift identification of industry challenges and potential solutions. For instance, companies could position their research and development, innovation, learning and development, recruitment, or business improvement departments on the university campus. Stanford University, where companies like Facebook maintain offices, is a good example.

5. Reward systems for faculty that lead in the gown-town relationship. An annual award and recognition for faculty members who excel in enhancing the gown-town relationship should be established. This initiative will encourage faculty to maximize the value of their research toward societal needs and actively pursue industry partnerships.

Conclusion:

Rivers State University (RSU) is capable of assuming a leadership position in addressing societal challenges through strong partnerships among academia, industry, government, and the community. This vision of a collaborative "town-gown" relationship is not only attainable but essential for RSU to unlock its full potential and make significant contributions to national progress.

Nigerian academic institutions have a unique opportunity to connect research with practical applications. The country faces numerous well-documented challenges in food, energy, health, and infrastructure. The academic community should focus research on these areas for the nation’s development.

Globally, leading universities have established a model for such collaboration. In an address at the World Economic Forum, Prof Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala emphasized, “Development is about transformation. Research and policies are futile if they don’t translate into tangible changes in the people's lives.” The transformation she advocates is precisely what RSU must pursue—transitioning from theoretical research to impactful research in partnership with external stakeholders.

A formal framework is crucial for fostering collaboration and ensuring that RSU's research is in harmony with societal demands. Creating a Town-Gown Council will establish the governance structure necessary to explore the vast opportunities and strategic pathways needed to close this divide. As Nigerian entrepreneur Tony Elumelu stated, “Success is about bringing together the right people and the right resources.” It is imperative for RSU to assemble a diverse coalition of academic talent, industry leaders, government, and community to realize its aspirations.

The journey toward success may be challenging, yet it is attainable. By forming a Town-Gown Council, focusing research on societal needs, and securing sustainable funding, RSU can position itself as a frontrunner in academic and practical spheres. RSU has the potential to emerge as a symbol of hope and a catalyst for progress in Nigeria and beyond.

RSU cannot afford to postpone action, waiting for the perfect conditions. As South African icon Nelson Mandela wisely remarked, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” RSU must embrace this perspective, acknowledging that the challenges it faces—especially funding—are significant but not insurmountable.

This brings to mind the words of the esteemed African American educator Booker T. Washington: “Success is to be measured, not so much by the position one has reached in life, as by the obstacles which one has overcome.” RSU can surmount the challenges it faces—and, in doing so, be a role model for other Nigerian Universities and foster a more promising future for all.

I encourage RSU to affirm its commitment by setting a target date, such as 2030 or 2035, by which it aims to generate sufficient revenue from its intellectual property commercialization to sustain all its operations. Such a resolute approach will enhance the town-gown relationship.

I also challenge the industry to step up significantly to support research, as the universities cannot do it alone. The National Bureau of Statistics report highlights that a ten-to-twenty-fold increase in funding is required for research to thrive in Nigeria.

Finally, ultra-high-net-worth individuals also have a role to play in supporting universities and research. In 2023, $58bn was donated to universities and research in the USA. Alumni and Ultra-High-Net-Worth individuals donated $21bn of that. Donors like Ruth Gottesman, John Doerr, and Michael Bloomberg have each donated over a billion, while others like Mark Zuckerberg, Gordon Moore, Herbert Irving, and Steward Resnick have each donated over $500m.

In Nigeria, we have seen Alhaji Samad Rabiu donate $12m to 21 Universities, Femi Otedola donate $2m to Augustine University, Alhaji Indimi donate $2 m to the University of Maiduguri, and Aliko Dangote donate $1 m to Bayero University. A lot more can still be done, especially in research.

Thank you once again for the honor of being a guest speaker today, and I wish RSU continued growth, resilience, and leadership in the pursuit of this noble vision