University of Abuja Researchers and Authors Secure Over N3 Billion in Research Grants

In a significant accomplishment, researchers and authors at the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) have been awarded research grants exceeding N3 billion over the past year. The announcement was made by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, during an awards presentation ceremony honoring 55 distinguished researchers and authors at the institution.

Prof. Na’Allah expressed the university's commitment to impactful research, setting a goal of reaching N10 billion in research grants for its scholars in the coming year. Applauding the awardees as ambassadors of the institution, he emphasized UNIABUJA's dedication to making a notable mark on society and positioning itself as a premier research-intensive university in Nigeria.

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The breakdown of awards included seven gold medals, two silver medals, and 45 bronze medals for researchers. Authors received eight gold, nine silver, and 27 bronze awards, showcasing the diverse contributions across various fields.

In addition to the grant achievements, Prof. Na’Allah revealed plans for the establishment of a Youth Leaders Clinic at the university. This initiative aims to train and prepare young individuals for leadership roles, contributing to the broader development of skilled professionals.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Vice Chancellor of Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Prof. Olasebikan Fakolujo, expressed concern over the continued exclusion of private universities from Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) loans. Prof. Fakolujo highlighted the vital role played by private universities in the higher education landscape and advocated for their inclusion in government support initiatives.

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The press conference, held in anticipation of JABU's 14th Convocation, also addressed the absence of private university students from the Federal Government's loan scheme. The convocation is set to graduate 467 students, including those achieving first-class honors, showcasing the institution's commitment to academic excellence.

The Vice Chancellor underscored that private universities and their employees contribute to national development through tax payments and should, therefore, be granted equal opportunities for growth and support. The discussions at the conference shed light on the complex dynamics surrounding funding and support for both public and private higher education institutions in Nigeria.