YABATECH's Oluwol Calls for Collaboration in Publishing

During the 22nd inaugural lecture series at Yaba College of Technology, Chief Lecturer Catherine Oluwol called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to revitalize Nigeria's printing and publishing industry. The lecture, titled "Print and Publish: Twin Need," emphasized that the industry's survival and advancement depend on coordinated efforts from the government, financial institutions, publishers, authors, and key players.

Oluwol pointed out significant challenges facing the sector, including inadequate funding, obsolete equipment, a shortage of skilled manpower, a weak reading culture, and widespread piracy. She urged the government to implement policies that protect intellectual property rights and encourage investment in modern publishing infrastructure.

Additionally, she recommended reviewing import duties on publishing equipment to reduce costs and improve access to modern technology. Oluwol also highlighted the importance of establishing book clubs in schools to promote a reading culture among youth and suggested regular training for industry staff to maintain competitiveness amid technological changes.