UniCal VC urges scholars to focus research on societal solutions

Prof. Florence Obi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UniCal), has urged scholars to undertake research that addresses society’s pressing challenges.

Obi made this call on Wednesday in Calabar during a research fair organized as part of the university’s 37th convocation celebrations.

She emphasized that research should lead to inventions and innovations that would bring tangible benefits to society and humanity.

The Vice Chancellor called on academic staff to ensure their research extends beyond publication in journals and other outlets, stressing the importance of creating work with real-world applications.

“The essence of this fair is to showcase the university’s research to the world and attract sponsorships for some of our innovations,” Obi explained.

“Research is a core mandate of a scholar, and it is one of the three major components of our job, which are teaching, research, and community service.”

Obi highlighted the significant impact the university’s research efforts have had on society in recent years. She revealed that six of the university’s staff were listed among the world’s top two percent of researchers.

Additionally, she noted that around 80 research proposals from UniCal staff are currently under review by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund).

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“I am very proud of these accomplishments,” she said, also expressing gratitude to Tetfund for its continued support of academic research. “Your interventions have truly increased the tempo of research at this university.”

Mr. Bassey Okon, Director of Research and Development at UniCal, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of developing innovations that improve the quality of life for the people.

He explained that the research fair provides a platform for the private sector to see the university’s efforts and collaborate for a better society.

Okon acknowledged the challenges faced by researchers, such as inadequate internet access and power issues.

However, he noted that both the Federal Government and Tetfund are working to address these challenges, ensuring that the research environment continues to improve.