OAU Enhances Data Management through Insights from ARUA Workshop

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is set to enhance its data management practices following the participation of its representatives, Babajide Afolabi and Matthew Oluwaniyi, in the ARUA Workshop for Data Teams. The workshop, held at the Sarova Panafric in Nairobi, Kenya, from June 23 to 26, 2024, was a part of the Data-Gathering and Benchmarking Project Phase 3. It brought together data teams from 23 African universities to exchange strategies on improving data management and benchmarking in higher education.

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The event was inaugurated by outgoing ARUA Secretary General, Prof. Ernest Aryeetey, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, Prof. Stephen Kiama Gitahi. The workshop featured presentations from three groups of universities: older members, new members, and peer-learning South African universities. Each group shared their progress and experiences in data management, offering valuable insights and lessons for all attendees.

Key Takeaways:

1. Gender Sensitivity in Appointments: Emphasizing the importance of gender sensitivity in university appointments to promote diversity and inclusion.

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2. Centralized University Data Policy: Developing a centralized data policy to streamline data management and ensure consistency across the institution.

3. Collaboration with Experienced Institutions: Leveraging collaborations with seasoned institutions like the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan to enhance data management capabilities.

4. Intellectual Property Rights: Focusing on the significance of intellectual property rights, particularly in the creative arts, to safeguard university innovations.

5. Comprehensive Research Directory: Establishing a detailed research directory within the university to facilitate access to research data and outputs.

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6. Postgraduate Program Enrollment: Increasing enrollment in postgraduate programs to boost research output and academic excellence.

7. Data Governance Framework: Implementing a robust data governance framework to oversee data management practices.

8. Data Literacy Training: Incorporating data literacy training for students and staff to improve data handling skills.

9. Data Management Office: Creating a dedicated Data Management Office to oversee data-related activities and ensure best practices.

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10. Grants Specialist Writer: Establishing a Grants Specialist Writer position to assist in securing funding opportunities.

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The workshop concluded with a strong commitment from OAU representatives to address existing data management challenges and leverage the insights gained to enhance the university’s data systems. ARUA leadership encouraged OAU to utilize available resources effectively and improve its performance in data management and research capabilities.

This ARUA Workshop for Data Teams provided a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building, paving the way for significant improvements in data management practices at OAU.

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For further information, contact: Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
Email: info@oauife.edu.ng
Website: www.oauife.edu.ng