RSU Hosts Dr. Daere Afonya Akobo for Combined 37th and 38th Convocation Lecture, Urges Innovation and Industry Collaboration

Renowned entrepreneur and global business leader, Dr. Daere Afonya Akobo, called on Rivers State University (RSU) to enhance innovation, technology, and creativity to remain globally competitive during the combined 37th and 38th Convocation Lecture on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025.

Dr. Akobo’s lecture was titled: “Joint University–Industry Ventures: Entrepreneurship, Technology, Sustainability, and People Nexus for Rivers State University.”

He highlighted that modern universities are evolving beyond teaching and research to become strategic drivers of national innovation and economic transformation, serving as platforms that boost competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi reaffirmed RSU’s commitment to development through collaboration, emphasizing the need for solutions that bridge academia and industry. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Akobo and other dignitaries for honoring the institution.

Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, Chairman of the Convocation Lecture, commended RSU’s progress while urging the university to adopt innovative strategies to achieve greater academic heights. He stressed that sustainability is a shared responsibility and called for the training of graduates who are technologically competent, confident, and empathetic.

The lecture drew an impressive audience, including Council Members, Principal Officers, former Vice-Chancellors, Provosts, Deans, Directors, traditional rulers, RSU alumni, professionals, and graduating students, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence.