Education Minister Urges Universities to Drive Economic Growth

On Monday, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, called on Nigerian universities and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to bridge the gap between research and the marketplace. He emphasized the importance of converting university innovations into businesses and jobs to facilitate Nigeria's economic transformation.

During a presentation to vice-chancellors and academic leaders, Dr. Alausa highlighted the potential of the proposed NASENI Campus, which aims to connect researchers with advanced laboratories and industry. He stressed that research outputs should not merely result in academic publications but should lead to patenting and the development of marketable products.

Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the EVC/CEO of NASENI, outlined the agency's efforts to ensure innovations reach production stages, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive. Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, noted the successful partnership with NASENI as a model for future collaborations.