Prof. Simonyan Advocates Endogenous Technologies for Sustainable Economic Growth at MOUAU's 55th Inaugural Lecture

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) hosted its 55th Inaugural Lecture at the Anyim Pius Anyim Auditorium, where Prof. (Engr.) Kayode Joshua Simonyan delivered a compelling talk on "Unveiling the Wedlock of Endogenous Technologies and Sustainable Economic Growth." The lecture, delivered on August 14, 2024, emphasized the crucial role of endogenous technologies in driving sustainable economic development.

In his opening remarks, MOUAU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe highlighted the timeliness of the lecture's theme, stressing the importance of stable power supply and advanced equipment for economic progress. He urged the Nigerian government to invest in these areas and support universities in innovative research.

Prof. Simonyan, a Professor of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, argued that agriculture, contributing over 25.18% to Nigeria's GDP, faces significant challenges due to inadequate power and mechanization. He pointed out that over 70% of Nigerians engage in subsistence farming with minimal mechanization, which limits productivity. “A large percentage of farmers rely on manual labor or animal power, with less than 1% of farmers using mechanized equipment,” he stated.

Prof. Simonyan called for the development of local power sources and agricultural machinery to enhance food security and economic growth. He criticized Nigeria's reliance on imported machinery, which he said is capital-intensive, often unsuitable for local conditions, and contributes to job losses in domestic factories. He also noted the waste and inefficiencies associated with imported machinery.

He advocated for utilizing local steel industries, like the Ajaokuta Steel Company, to support endogenous technology. Prof. Simonyan stressed the need for a functional steel industry and a regularly updated database of agricultural technologies. He also recommended investing in biomass-to-electricity conversion to address power shortages.

The professor emphasized the importance of improving power supplies in Nigerian universities to support research and innovation. He called for local production of agricultural equipment and machinery, with legislation to prioritize domestic products over imports. He also highlighted the need for better funding and commercialization of locally developed technologies.

The event was attended by university principal officers, including the former Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU and current Vice-Chancellor of Rhema University, Aba, Prof. O. C. Onwudike, as well as scholars, family members, and friends of the lecturer. The MOUAU Choral Chimes provided cultural entertainment during the lecture.

Prof. Simonyan, also the former Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET) and current Director of the Directorate of University Research Administration (DURA), expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to present his research and acknowledged the support of the university and his personal network.

The inaugural lecture, a significant milestone for academics, allowed Prof. Simonyan to share his research achievements and contribute to discussions on advancing Nigeria’s agricultural and economic sectors.