Dr. Olowolafe Advocates for Enhanced Research Strategies

Dr. Olowolafe spoke at the 65th anniversary celebration of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, addressing the theme “Promoting Research Excellence and Innovation in Postgraduate Studies: Charting the Future.” He described research as a disciplined habit essential for correcting a nation's course based on evidence. He urged OAU to enhance its Staff Schools to set benchmarks for Africa, focusing on science, technology, and artificial intelligence.

He referenced the Gbemisola Olowolafe Memorial Community Secondary School in Are Ekiti, which opened in September 2025 with over 170 students and an ICT center. He proposed that universities recognize prior learning and expertise without compromising standards.

With only one million of two million UTME candidates admitted in 2025, he advocated for flexible digital study models. He also called for rigorous testing of indigenous knowledge and for research to directly benefit the economy, suggesting that universities reward patents and commercial products alongside traditional publications.