UI Vice-Chancellor Declares Shift from Publish or Perish to Innovate or Stagnate for New Academic Staff

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has declared that the traditional academic culture of “publish or perish” is giving way to a more demanding standard of “innovate or stagnate,” urging newly appointed teaching staff to embrace innovation, relevance, and impact-driven scholarship.

He made the statement at the opening ceremony of a two-day capacity building workshop organized for over 500 newly appointed academic staff by the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, through the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL).

Professor Adebowale described the workshop as a strategic intervention aimed at reshaping the mindset of academics by redirecting attention to the core responsibilities of teaching and knowledge creation. He stressed that academics are no longer just transmitters of knowledge but “entrepreneurs of ideas” expected to convert research outputs into patents, startups, and practical solutions to national and continental challenges.

He warned that the modern student population, being digital natives, engages learning differently and therefore requires a shift in pedagogical approach. According to him, lecturers must move away from the traditional “sage on the stage” model to becoming “guides on the side,” facilitating learning rather than dominating it.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that institutional reputation is built on the quality of teaching, research, and service delivery, adding that strict adherence to quality assurance mechanisms such as course evaluation and accreditation processes is non-negotiable.

He further underscored the role of technology in modern education, urging academic staff to leverage digital tools to enhance learning delivery, expand institutional reach, and maintain continuity of academic activities even during disruptions.

Professor Adebowale also highlighted the importance of mentorship within the university system, encouraging new lecturers to build strong professional relationships with senior academics who can guide them through the demands of tenure, promotion, and academic excellence.

He stated that as a leading institution in Africa’s intellectual landscape, the University of Ibadan carries a responsibility that extends beyond its immediate environment. He charged the new staff to pursue research that responds to Africa’s developmental challenges while contributing to global academic discourse.

According to him, academics at the university are not only Nigerian scholars but African intellectuals with global relevance, whose work must inspire future leaders across the continent.

He urged the new lecturers to remain visible within the academic community by actively participating in seminars and scholarly engagements, while maintaining resilience, student-centered teaching approaches, and a strong sense of institutional identity.

The Director of CETL, Professor Adedoyin Aguoru, noted that the workshop was designed to expose participants to modern teaching methodologies, innovative instructional approaches, and best global practices, while also providing opportunities for networking and professional development.

The programme featured keynote presentations by Dr Godwin R. Murunga, Executive Secretary of the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA); Pastor Godman Akinlabi, Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church and Faculty Member at Daystar Leadership Academy; and Professor Jide Owoeye, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Lead City University, Ibadan.

A series of technical sessions were also delivered by senior academics and professionals across the university. Topics included academic leadership and governance, teaching and assessment strategies, research and innovation, digital learning systems, mentorship, grant writing, quality assurance, interdisciplinary research, and institutional accountability.

Other areas covered included library systems in the digital age, postgraduate academic writing standards, e-learning and digital literacy, staff wellness and cardiovascular risk management, SERVICOM advocacy, and professional relationship management as a tool for academic impact.