Universities in Ebonyi State have entered a strategic partnership to strengthen research, academic development, and innovation through the National Research Fund (NRF) of TETFund. The collaboration involves both federal and state-owned institutions, including David Umahi University of Medical Sciences (DUFUHS), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State University (EBSU), the University of Information and Communication Technology, Oferekpe (UICTO), and the University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering, Ezza (EAUAE).
At a one-day summit themed “Inter-University Collaboration, Access to National Research Fund of TETFund, and Moving Research to Policy in Nigeria” held in Abakaliki, Prof. Jesse Uneke, Vice Chancellor of DUFUHS, described the alliance as a major breakthrough that will bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
“No university can succeed in isolation. By working together, we can unlock research funding and produce evidence that informs policy,” he stated.
According to Uneke, the partnership will enable scholars to jointly apply for research grants, access modern research equipment, and receive technical support to execute impactful projects in key areas such as agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, climate change, and ICT.
Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Prof. Akaneren Essien, commended the initiative, saying the National Research Fund encourages collaboration over rivalry, enabling institutions to share resources, co-author proposals, and generate research that contributes to Ebonyi State’s economic and social development.
He urged research teams to focus on studies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in renewable energy, water resource management, and climate action.
Vice Chancellors of EBSU, UICTO, and EAUAE—Prof. Michael Awoke, Prof. Ernest Egba, and Prof. Patrick Enyi—praised the summit as a groundbreaking step that opens new opportunities for research and academic partnerships in Ebonyi.
The summit will now be held annually, with plans to include private universities in future editions.
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