Oko Polytechnic School of Engineering Technology Holds 2nd International Multidisciplinary Conference

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has described innovation and adaptation to emerging global realities as essential for national survival, calling on Nigeria to lead in technological advancement. She assured that Federal Polytechnic Oko would take the lead in this direction.

Dr. Awuzie, represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, made this known at the 2nd International Multidisciplinary Conference of the School of Engineering Technology, Federal Polytechnic Oko. She described the conference as a platform for shaping the technological and economic future of the nation through ideas, innovation, and collaboration.

The Rector emphasized that polytechnics are engines of applied knowledge, where theories become practice, skills are sharpened, and innovation is tested against real-world problems. She urged lecturers to uphold professionalism, shun indecent practices, and produce graduates who are creators, problem-solvers, and innovators. She also charged students to be creative and spend more time in laboratories, workshops, and project rooms than on social media.

Reiterating management’s commitment, Dr. Awuzie announced that her administration has reopened institution-based research and fabrication grants, with proposals already awaiting TETFund approval. She added that new state-of-the-art equipment would soon be installed in various departments, including Electrical/Electronics Engineering, to provide students with genuine hands-on training that meets global standards. She affirmed that the polytechnic’s mission aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Earlier, the Dean of the School of Engineering Technology, Engr. Dr. Anthony Umeozokwere, welcomed participants and introduced the conference theme, “Technological Innovations, Imperatives for Driving Investment and Sustainable Development.” He described the theme as timely, given Nigeria’s economic challenges, and stressed the need for technological innovations and global partnerships to reduce poverty and unemployment.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Cosmas Maduka, President/CEO of Coscharis Group, emphasized the importance of practicalizing knowledge and described innovation as a key driver of success. He noted that the ability to think outside the box is a vital quality for business leaders in overcoming challenges.

The lead paper presenter, Engr. Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Onyenanu of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and Director of Nutabolts Technologies Ltd, Enugu, called on government to create a conducive environment for technological development, decrying the harsh conditions currently hindering progress.

Highlights of the conference included the presentation of awards to the Rector, paper presenters, and other participants.