FUNAAB Holds Workshop for Deans, Directors on Ethical Work Practices
FUNAAB recently hosted a workshop focused on promoting ethical work practices among its Deans and Directors of Academic Centres.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) recently convened a Workshop aimed at promoting best ethical work practices among its Deans and Directors of Academic Centres. Held at the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE) Conference Room, the event focused on the university’s "Work Ethics" and its newly approved research policy.
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Addressing participants, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde underscored the critical role of policy in the university’s functioning, particularly emphasizing the importance of a robust research policy for maintaining ethical standards. He emphasized that ethical clearance is mandatory for securing research funds, ensuring research quality and integrity, and cautioned against the repercussions of unethical research practices, citing potential legal challenges and loss of funding.
Prof. Kehinde credited FUNAAB’s ethical framework to the foundational principles laid down by the university's elders and commended Prof. Isaac Aiyelagbe for organizing the successful workshop. Prof. Aiyelagbe, Chairman of the University Research Ethics Committee (UREC) and the Workshop’s Organizing Committee Chairman, highlighted the workshop’s goal to formulate effective research policies that safeguard the university’s future.
During his presentation titled "FUNAAB Research Ethics Policy: Perspective and Implementation," Prof. Aiyelagbe stressed the need for cautious policy-making to prevent adverse consequences that could undermine years of institutional progress. Additionally, Prof. Mutiu Busari, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovations, and Partnerships (DRIP), presented a "Manuscript Evaluation Template for Ethical Approval," emphasizing the importance of rigorous ethical evaluation in research processes.
Participants were encouraged to actively contribute to the policy development process, ensuring FUNAAB maintains its commitment to upholding high ethical standards in all research activities. The workshop concluded with a commitment to implement robust ethical guidelines that align with international best practices, reinforcing FUNAAB’s reputation as a leader in ethical research governance.
