University of Ibadan Pushes for Research Commercialization

The University of Ibadan has established an office dedicated to driving the commercialization of research outputs and innovations. According to former Vice-Chancellor Professor Abel I. Olayinka, the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships aims to connect research findings with industry for societal impact.

The university hosted "UI-Town Connect 2025", a fair fostering connections between academia and industry. A committee has been set up by the Postgraduate College to explore commercializing doctoral theses.

Experts emphasized the need for research to solve societal problems, with discussions on intellectual property protection and collaboration involving industry players like Odu'a Investment Company and the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Professor Olayinka called for government support through incentives and scholarships to boost impactful research. The event featured exhibitions and roundtable discussions on research and innovation.