AKSU Collaborates with US-Based Scholar for Research Competition

Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has partnered with Mr. Kingsley Umani, a researcher at Washington State University, USA, to launch a groundbreaking research competition aimed at advancing agricultural innovation and academic excellence among its students.

This collaboration, announced on October 28, 2024, at AKSU’s Main Campus in Ikot Akpaden, marks a significant step for the Department of Agricultural Engineering in promoting research-driven solutions for pressing agricultural challenges.

In his address, Dr. Promise Etim, Head of the Department of Agricultural Engineering, highlighted the importance of the competition, designed to encourage students to showcase original research findings. “We aim to cultivate a spirit of scientific inquiry and practical innovation,” Dr. Etim stated, noting that participants will be judged on scientific rigor, presentation, and the visual impact of their posters. The competition is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students who completed research projects in 2024, with a focus on areas such as Environmental Engineering, Solar Drying and Renewable Systems, Farm Machinery Design, Waste Water Treatment, and Biodiesel Production.

The competition, which officially opens for registration on November 4, 2024, is set to culminate in January 2025. Mr. Umani, who addressed the audience remotely, stressed that the initiative would not only strengthen students’ research skills but also prepare them for the interdisciplinary demands of the global workforce. "We want students to gain confidence in their knowledge and to develop communication skills that are critical to both academic and professional success," he said. Mr. Umani also revealed that prizes would be awarded to the top three participants, further incentivizing excellence.

The launch event included several key moments, including the inauguration of the Department's first-ever Poster Competition for Postgraduate and Final-year students and the presentation of a competition concept note. Mr. Ubong Essien from AKSU’s Directorate of ICT also introduced a dedicated website for the competition, signaling a step forward in integrating digital resources with academic initiatives.

The event, attended by numerous faculty members and students, underscores AKSU’s commitment to fostering an innovative research culture and equipping students with skills that meet global agricultural needs. This collaboration not only brings AKSU students to the forefront of agricultural engineering research but also opens doors for future international partnerships and interdisciplinary networking.