Nasarawa State University Hosts UNDP Africa Regional Office Delegation

Nasarawa State University, Keffi, recently received a delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Africa Regional Office.

The delegation, led by prominent officials, visited the university to discuss the conceptualization and plans for activating the University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at NSUK.

The UniPod, themed around mining, aims to drive innovations in minerals development, foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government, and promote environmental stewardship. During the visit, the delegation was taken on a tour of the UniPod facility and engaged in discussions with the UniPod team.

The discussions centered around the objectives, activation, operationalization, and sustainability of the UniPod. The NSUK team informed the delegation about the UniPod's concept, which includes securing collaborations and partnerships, integrating the university curriculum, and engaging artisanal and small-scale miners.

The UNDP team expressed satisfaction with the progress made and praised the UniPod's practical approach to driving innovations in minerals development. They also commended the plans to integrate UniPod activities with academic curricula and the initiation of projects that will contribute to the development of the minerals sector.

The UniPod is expected to provide infrastructure for mineral analysis, environmental impact studies, and extraction technique optimization. The launch of the UniPod is imminent, and upcoming activities include sensitization workshops, business and skills-building clinics, calls for participation, and solutions.