FUNAI HOLDS RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK (RDF) WORKSHOP
In order to develop a sustainable research culture, the Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (FUNAI), Ebonyi State yesterday organized a research development framework and mentoring workshop for academic staff of the institution.
Declaring the workshop open, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom noted that the workshop was apt and timely, geared towards enhancing the capacities of the University’s teaching staff in the area of research development.
A cross section of academic staff during the technical session of the workshop
The Deputy Vice Chancellor who was represented in the event by Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Mathew Edeoga maintained that the University is interested in doing things differently in order to contribute positively to the development of society.
Rep. of the DVC, Prof. Mathew Edeoga speaking at the workshop
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Director of Academic Planning of the University, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji explained that the workshop was geared towards helping young academics grow in their academic activities through research development framework, which he categorized into four domains and twelve sub-domains. He also stressed the importance of mentorship in career development, advising academics to be role models to their students and juniors.
DAP, Prof. Dr. Jonny Ogunji speaking at the workshop
Speaking on the first domain of research development framework, Dr. C.A Afiukwa of the Department of Biotechnology, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki said it resolves round knowledge and intellectual abilities of individuals, adding that career development is a personal responsibility. He stressed the importance of having a career goal, carrying out self-assessment, developing action plan and periodic evaluation in career success, urging academics to embrace self-development.
Dr. C. V Nnamani, also of the Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, while espousing the second and third domains of research development framework, noted that it involves building connections, collaborations and networks with like-minds in order to have rapid academic growth. He further urged young academics to be patient, humble and stay in touch with their mentors in order to excel in their chosen fields.
Exploring the fourth domain, Dr. Chinagolum Ituma noted that it entails engaging, influencing and impacting on the lives of other people, adding that it could be academically, socially, culturally or economically. He concluded that any research work that does not have positive impact on society is worthless and of no consequence in the academic world.
The workshop rounded-off with a call for the University to increase its networking and funding activities in order to enhance its international recognition.