Mr. Adegbenro A. Adebanjo
Director, Corporate Communications & ProtocolsFUTA INTRODUCES NEW VARIETY OF TOMATOES
A new variant of tomatoes named Eva F1 has been introduced into Nigeria courtesy of a collaborative effort between the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT) and the Teaching and Research Farm (TRF) of the Federal University of Technology, Akure. The Eva F1 Tomato is a variety five times bigger in size than the commonly available one in the Nigerian market and it is capable of producing paste more than four times the latter. The Eva F1 tomato has the rare quality of imperishability over a period of two weeks from date of harvest.At a formal presentation of the first harvest of the product to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adeola Fuwape, the Dean, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Professor Taiwo Amos in company of the FUTA Farm Manager, Mr. Olajide Adedayo said the Eva F1 seedling was imported from Israel and carefully nurtured in FUTA’s Green House under controlled temperature. Adedayo described the development as the actualization of part of the mandate and determination of the University to put science to work for the society. He said the Teaching and Research Farm under the watch of the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology has gone into the farming and production of Tomato Eva F1 variety in the Green House using modern farming technique. He said High crop yield is achieved under a small area of land as a unit of the Green House covers 192m2 (8m x 24m).
Speaking further on the advantages of the new variety and its potentials, Adedayo said “with this technology, the Tomato crop will be grown and produce round the season. The Eva F1 Tomatoes are organically produced and an indeterminate hybrid variety with an extended shelf life, good resistance to cracking with flower setting at high temperatures. On the gestation period, he said “the first harvest of the fruits started after three months of planting and we hope to continue the harvest for the next six months. Departments in the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology such as Agricultural Extension and Communication (AEC) and Food Science Technology, (FST) are already involved in a joint research effort through sampling the fruit for analysis and to determine the level of its nutritional content for finished product such as Tomato paste, Ketchup etc.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fuwape described the successful cultivation and production of the Eva F1 Tomatoes as another proof of FUTA’s robust contributions to the development of the country through pursuit of excellence in its area of core mandates.
He called on investors and interested agencies to partner with the university in order to engender massive cultivation of the new variety and stimulate its contributions to the economy.
FUTA road to the cultivation of Eva F1 tomatoes began with the immediate past Dean of SAAT, Professor Shadrack Akindele who saw the product on a working visit to Israel, got linked with Dizengoff Nigeria, had a discussion with the organization and sold the idea to the University Management and got approval for its cultivation and production through a Green House modern farming technique.
FUTA WINS UNITED KINGDOM GLOBAL CHALLENGES RESEARCH FUND (GCRF)…TO PARTICIPATE IN INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH PROJECT WITH GLOBAL CONSORTIUMS
The Department of Meteorology and Climate Science (MCS) and the WASCAL Graduate Research Studies program in the West African Climate System (GSP-WACS) of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA has won a research grant from the United Kingdom (UK) Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) African Science for Weather Information and Forecasting Techniques (SWIFT). Over the four -year programme, the experts from FUTA who won the grant, Prof. Kenny Ogunjobi (Director, WASCAL), Dr. Elijah Adefisan, Prof. Emmanuel Okogbue (Head of Department of Meteorology and Climate Science Department) Prof. Jerome Omotosho and Dr. Vincent Ajayi will join a the team of 25 UK and 45 African atmospheric scientists, social scientists and operational forecasters who will undertake fundamental scientific research into the physics of tropical weather systems, evaluation and presentation of complex model and satellite data, and communications and exploitation of forecasts. By significantly improving the research capacity in Nigeria in particular, the project will benefit diverse sectors such as aviation, agriculture, energy, water resources and emergency response. The project will also ensure that results can be translated beyond the partner countries and into the wider developing world.
The African SWIFT consortium will be led by the UK National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) and builds upon existing partnerships between forecasting centres and universities in four African partner countries – bringing together 5 UK partners (NCAS, University of Leeds, University of Reading, CEH and UK Met Office) and 10 African partners (Senegal – ANACIM and UCAD; Ghana – GMet and KNUST; Nigeria – FUTA and Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet; Kenya – KMet, ICPAC and University of Nairobi; and ACMAD) and the World Meteorological Organization, as an advisory partner.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Fuwape has congratulated the team that won the grant on behalf of the University saying it further underscores FUTA’s pace setting efforts in technological advancement of Nigeria and its ability to hold its own in the comity of global Universities. He said the participation of FUTA in this unique international African SWIFT project will strongly support its capacity as a major training hub for Meteorology and Climate Science and as the University component of the WMO Regional Meteorological training centre for West Africa.
The MCS Department and GSP-WACS of the University have become well-known weather and climate training centres for producing highly-skilled professionals at undergraduate and postgraduate levels for West Africa, in order to address the region’s weather and climate challenges. In collaboration with NiMet and other partners, FUTA will be involved in the study of predictability of African rainfall on sub-seasonal timescales, skill assessment of sub-seasonal to seasonal models, Satellite and remote sensing as well as synoptic methods of forecasting major rain-producing systems over West Africa.
FUTA NEW VICE-CHANCELOR UNFOLDS SEVEN POINT AGENDA
The new Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Joseph Adeola Fuwape has unfolded a seven-point agenda that he said will further take the Institution to greater heights. He made this known at his inauguration ceremony presided over by the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institution ,Senator Joseph Waku on Wednesday , May 24, 2017.Delivering his maiden address, Fuwape said “we have the collective responsibility to take the University to the next level of becoming a world class University and Centre of Excellence. In order to achieve this laudable goal we will leverage on past achievements to implement seven major goals viz: improvement of quality of academic programme; development of human resources; re-branding of FUTA as Centre of Excellence in Research, Innovation and Product Development; deployment of ICT in learning and research; enhancement of staff and students welfare; internalization and globalization and improvement of capital base”. Speaking on the quality of academic programmes which is the core mandate of any University he said need-driven, robust and relevant academic programmes are not only central to, but are the pillars upon which the name and reputation of a University depends. On how to further improve the quality of the academic programmes he said “Universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are famous because of their high quality academic programmes and staff. Therefore we will work to restructure the academic curricula in the different departments to be 21st century compliant”. He also assured the University of his determination to establish collaborations with more reputable Institutions within and outside the country because linkages are necessary to strengthen research collaborations, improve teaching and attract sponsorships, fellowships and research grants. Professor Fuwape solicited the support of all stakeholders in the Project FUTA to achieve peaceful co-existence that will lead to uninterrupted academic sessions. “The University of our vision can only be attained in an environment where there is peace and industrial harmony. I charge us all as a community of enlightened people to collectively allow peace, tranquility and harmony to reign supreme in FUTA. It is only where we allow this to happen that we can focus on how to make our University the first among equals in the comity of Universities in Nigeria. As the 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, I will do everything God lays at my disposal to carry every stakeholder along. I declare that I belong to every Union on this campus, including the Students’ Union”. Speaking on welfare, he said “on our part as FUTA Management we will be responsive to the welfare needs of staff and students in order to guarantee an environment conducive to teaching, learning and research. We want to foster a forward-looking, proactive, servant leadership environment for our University. I offer to serve as a dedicated, visionary, hardworking, honest, transparent and humane leader, “he added. He commended the credibility and impartiality of the selection team led by the Pro Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Senator Waku, and extended the olive branch to those who competed with him in the race. “I salute the doggedness of my colleagues and co-competitors for this position and for demonstrating the spirit of sportsmanship “he added. Earlier in a valedictory address, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola appreciated the effort of all stakeholders in the University for making his tenure conducive. He said “the achievements his administration recorded would not have been possible without the support of men and women of goodwill. It can only be told in modest term that during the period of my stewardship, FUTA through the grace of God was able to take a giant leap by recording resounding success in all facets of academic, human and infrastructural development.” Speaking about his successor, Daramola said, “I am happy because I know you will bring your wealth of knowledge and experience to bear on your new position, especially having meritoriously served as Vice-Chancellor of a private University.” Daramola commended the support his administration received from the Governing Council, Senate, Management, staff and students of the University. “I appreciate the Senate of the University for cooperating and assisting to actualize my vision of taking FUTA to the market place. Together we have paid our dues and we are happy to have advanced the course of the University to greater heights” he concluded. In a brief remark, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Senator J.K.N. Waku commended the tremendous development the Daramola–led administration brought to the University and urged the newly inaugurated Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fuwape to build on those achievements. He said FUTA is blessed with brilliant academics who are agents of transformation. Waku counseled the Unions in the University to cooperate with the new Vice-Chancellor to have peace on campus. “I want to appeal to the Unions that this University belongs to you. Do not take things for granted. Do not take laws into your hands. Direct your grievances to the constituted authority so that they can be resolved amicably” he added
FUTA GOVERNING COUNCIL APPOINTS FUWAPE NEW VICE CHANCELLOR
The Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA has appointed Professor Joseph Adeola Fuwape as the Seventh substantive Vice Chancellor of the University. The Council presided over by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Joseph Waku, ratified the appointment at its Special meeting held on Thursday May 18, 2017. According to a letter of appointment personally signed by Senator Waku, Professor Fuwape’s Appointment which takes effect from Wednesday May 24, 2017 is for a single term of five years. Professor Fuwape of FUTA’s Department of Forestry and Wood Technology was educated at the University of Ibadan where he obtained his B.sc Forestry in 1979, M.Sc. Wood Products Engineering, 1982 and Ph.D. in Wood Products Engineering, 1984. He had his Post-Doctoral research in Wood composite system, University of North Wales. Bangor between1991-1992. He was also a Visiting research scientist, Department of Plant Science, Institute of Tropical Forestry University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. March, 1992. He started his university teaching and research career at the Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Ibadan in 1982. He secured appointment as Lecturer II at the Federal University of Technology Akure in 1984 and rose to the rank of a Professor on October 1st 1996. At the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Professor Fuwape served as Head of Forestry and Wood Technology Department for seven years, Dean School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology for four years and member of the University Governing Council for eight years. He served as the pioneer Director of Quality Assurance Unit, FUTA from 2010 to 2012. He was also Vice-Chancellor of the Salem University Lokoja between 2012 and 2017. He is a member of the Forestry Association of Nigeria, Institute of Wood Science, England, International Society of Tropical Foresters, Science Association of Nigeria, Forest Products Society and International Union of Forestry Research Organizations. He is married to Professor Ibiyinka Fuwape and blessed with children. Prof. Fuwape succeeds Professor Adebiyi Daramola, whose term ends on Tuesday, 23rd May, 2017.
In accordance with extant practice, the Federal University of Technology, Akure has begun the 2016/2017 admission process into its various undergraduate degree programmes with the screening of candidates. The four day Post-UTME screening exercise began on Tuesday, 9th August, 2016 with over 20,000 candidates jostling for 4,000 admission slots. The exercise which started as early as 7a.m. saw candidates trooping in in batches allocated to them. The transparent process saw officials of the University, including the Security Unit checking the documents of the candidates for eligibility. A team of the University Management, led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Academic), Professor Olatunde Arayela who is the Chairman, Admission Committee went round to observe the conduct of the exercise.
Starting from the University Sports Centre where the candidates were given a brief orientation to the point of the final screening, everything went on smoothly. Professor Olatunde Arayela commended the conduct of the exercise. According to him, in accordance with the policy of the Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja, FUTA is conducting the exercise checking the UTME and Ordinary Level results of candidates who chose the Institution with a score of 180 and above in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). He said there would not be any test whatsoever. Assessing the conduct of the exercise, Professor Arayela said it has been very impressive and well conducted. The candidates are well behaved, cooperating with the officials of the University and complying with the directives. “We have both the representatives of the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on ground to witness the conduct of the exercise. This is to ensure transparency and due process in the exercise” he added. He said about 4000 candidates will eventually scale the hurdle to become FUTA new students out of the over 20000 that registered for the screening exercise.
The Chairman, Publicity Sub-Committee, Dr. Joseph Basorun and Chairman, Technical Sub-Committee, Professor Boniface Alese both commended the conduct of the exercise. Basorun and Alese, comparing the exercise with the previous ones said “there is a significant improvement in the conduct. This is less time consuming, less stressful and it is cost effective. FUTA is a University with high reputation in conducting internal and external examinations. In the history of admission exercise in this University, we always try our best to avoid and at best reduce irregularities. This one too is not an exemption.”
Assessing the security situation during the exercise, the University Chief Security Officer (CSO), Alhaji Oladepo Lawal said everything went smoothly with no hitch. “Our security operation is always intact while conducting examinations. It has never happened in the history of this University to have issues during the conduct of entrance examination and screening. We also have a good reputation of a cult-free environment” he said.
Expressing their view on the exercise, some applicants said they are delighted in the smooth operations at FUTA. According to them, the exercise was orderly. A candidate, Shadow Solomon intending to study Computer Science said “I am really satisfied with the conduct of the screening. Everything went on smoothly from the start to the end. I was thrilled about the University anthem played to us in one of the halls. It teaches self-reliance and academic excellence. I am in love with FUTA already. The reception given to candidates and our parents is super. The officials at the screening venue were friendly and I love the Sport Centre, especially the track field. I look forward to becoming a part of this great citadel of learning.”
FUTA STUDENT WINS INTERNATIONAL GRANT, TO PARTICIPATE IN UN SPACE WORKSHOP IN MEXICO
rnOniosun Temidayo Isaiah, a 500 level student of the Department of Meteorology and Climate Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has emerged one of the 14 Global winners of the 2016 International Astronomical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders Grant instituted by the International Astronomical Federation, Paris, France. The Grant which was keenly contested with more than 100 students and young professionals from 38 countries around the world submitting applications to participate in the programme produced two African winners, Oniosun and Tijesu Ojumu, a graduate of FUTA who currently works at the National Space Research and Development Agency. Oniosun, the President of the University Space Club under the Centre for Space Research and Applications (CESRA), will participate in the 67th International Astronomical Congress, Space Generation Congress and UN/IAF Workshop in Guadalajara, Mexico between 21st September and 2nd October, 2016. During the congress, Oniosun would be presenting series of research works and a paper on the University Space Club analyzing past and ongoing projects/events as well as shedding light on the club’s mission with a view to collaborating with other Space Enthusiasts. The Emerging Space Leaders (ESL) grant is usually awarded to students and young professionals between the ages of 21 and 35 adjudged to have contributed the most to Space Science and Technology in the World. Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola expressed gratitude to God for the continuous growth of the University, particularly in terms of research and collaboration which he noted has been very instrumental in taking and sustaining the University in the global market. He expressed fulfillment that the University was able to compete favourably in the global intellectual market and acquire numerous laurels at both student and staff levels. He expressed optimism that the University would continue in these strides in the years to come in order to sustain its position as one of the leading Nigerian Universities.
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WORLD OCEANS DAY: HUMAN ACTIVITIES CAN ENDANGER THE OCEAN
rnA Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Oluayo Bello-Olusoji has called for maintenance of a sustainable marine environment. He said this at the 2016 World Ocean’s Day recently held at the Theodore Idibiye Auditorium of the University. The event with the theme: Healthy Ocean, Healthy People was aimed towards informing people on the danger incurred by negative human activities carried out on the ocean and the importance of cleanliness to their health and wellness. Olusoji, who said the ocean has been pushed beyond the limits that the marine environment can sustain, described the major threats against the ocean as over exploitation of marine resources and pollution. He said that over fishing which occurs as a result of the immense contribution of sea foods for feeding and medicinal purpose, can cause damage to the ecosystems on which marine life depends and that it has been predicted that if the pace of fishing continues, all fishes will collapse by 2048.
rnSpeaking on pollution, he noted that human health depends on the ocean as it is a basic element that makes all life on earth possible and any harm on the ocean would definitely affect human existence. He said that oil spills, climate change, ocean dumping like plastics and land pollutants that leach their way into the ocean leads to acidification, mercury contamination and de-oxygenation which is deadly to marine inhabitants. “For centuries people have regarded the oceans as an inexhaustible supply of food, a useful transport route and a convenient dumping ground-simply too vast to be affected by anything we do, but human activity, particularly over the decades, has finally pushed oceans to their limit. The ocean provides the oxygen to lives and the crops, the ocean feeds the world with its bounty and it is a source of raw materials vital for medical and other uses. The ocean has become a major source of breakthrough for medicines to the benefit of human health, if it became unable to perform the host of essential functions we all count on, the planet would become uninhabitable” he said.
rnConcluding, Olusoji said that the ocean has massive economic value making it necessary to maintain a sustainable marine environment. According to him Fisheries is one of the most widely recognized economic contributors due to many services it provides. He urged that people should do their part in keeping the ocean clean and safe from harm.
rnMoruf Adegbile, a 500 level student of Marine Science and Technology (MST) who spoke on the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and their effects on ocean’s health, said that POPs when consumed through contaminated sea foods can disrupt the endocrine, reproductive, nervous and immune systems and that they are also capable of causing behavioural problems cancer, diabetes and thyroid problem.
rnAlso, Kuyoro Esther a final year Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology (FAT) student who spoke on the topic Ocean Environment and Resources, said that ocean covers 70% of the earth’s surface. She described every part of the ocean as beautiful saying “ocean with so much beautiful creature need a healthy environment for survival”. She called on all to contribute to the healthiness of the ocean by engaging in activities that will prevent ocean pollution.
rnIn a welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola fnaae represented by Chairman, Committee of Deans, Professor Olarenwaju Michael Alatise said that the ocean is the heart of the planet earth and its pollution would definitely pollute the whole world. He said since the ocean is of immense benefits to the existence of the world, it calls for celebration and for the world to take proper care of it.
rnAs the event, pupils of Anchorite Day Care and Primary School, Akure presented a mini drama emphasizing the importance of a clean environment to healthy living. The Drama warned against defecating on water ways, indiscriminate dumping of refuse and also reemphasized the importance of proper care of water, especially from the source.
rnIn an address, Director of fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Ondo State, Mr. Ademola Olawale corroborated the Drama of the pupils of Anchorite Day Care and Primary School, saying it is a timely reflection of what is happening around the coastal areas of the State where his ministry constantly visits. He said the experience is the same in other parts of the country where people show less care for water. He called on all citizens to give adequate and proper attention to taking care of water because water is life. He called on the organizers of the annual events to invite technocrats and critical stakeholders like industrialists in coastal areas to subsequent annual World Ocean’s Day.
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FUTA TOPS SERVICOM EVALUATION CHART
rnIn confirmation of its commitment to first rate service delivery, the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has ranked top in the Service Compact (SERVICOM) Compliance Evaluation recently carried out in six selected Federal Universities across the Country by officials from the SERVICOM Headquarters. The evaluated institutions are Moddibo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, University of Maiduguri and Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto. The evaluation was majorly to identify gaps in service delivery and make recommendations to relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to improve customer satisfaction and accountability through evidence gathered through service windows such as interviews, discussions, partnerships, documents, research and observation. Among other things, FUTA was scored high for its dedication to training and retraining, particularly for students’ union leaders and the collation of staff particulars in the University yellow pages which the team adjudged as innovative. The University’s concerted and consistent efforts at flushing, “bag eggs” out of the system and its intolerance for defiant behaviour were also factors of strength noted by the evaluators from SERVICOM, the Presidency, Abuja.
rnRepresenting the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, fnaae at the Evaluation Reading Session, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Professor Tolulope Akinbogun lent credence to the need for SERVICOM Officials to be friendly with workers in the discharge of their duties. He stressed that the University (FUTA) would continue to do its best to stay atop and remain relevant in nation building, adding that the emergence of FUTA in the lead was a plus and a source of major encouragement to staff and students who have together worked towards the achievement of the University’s Vision.
rnIn his remark, the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius Okojie advised that probity and faithfulness in the supervision and administration of University academic activities should become the norm. He urged University Authorities in general to introduce the culture of mentorship for both staff and students, emphasizing that it is a vital element of service delivery. He noted the need for academic culture to be upheld and improved upon, while observing that workers in Institutions of Higher Learning have strong reasons to see SERVICOM Officials as partners in progress. Okojie enjoined the Officers to maintain relationships with staff members with a view to rendering efficient services.
rnSuggestions made for improvement in the Administration of Universities in the country include the review of service charters, the establishment and upgrading of fully compliant SERVICOM Units, regular consultation with stakeholders, staff directory, compliance to the use of identity cards by staff and students and the use of name and desk tags for easy identification by customers among others.
rnThe FUTA SERVICOM focal Officer, Mr. Johnson Eso said the University will strive to consolidate on qualitative service delivery in its area of strength while devising measures to improve on suggested areas by the SERVICOM National coordinators.
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AFRICAN SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTE CONFERS FELLOWSHIP ON BOYINBODE
rnDr. (Mrs.) Olutayo Kehinde Boyinbode of the University’s Computer Science Department has been named Fellow of the African Scientific Institute (AIS) alongside 12 other Nigerians. The Fellowship honours the accomplishments of spectacular individuals and provides a platform on which they can contribute and grow. Boyinbode, the International honorary recipient is now part of a think tank producing new ideas and resources for other Fellows and their projects. The African Scientific Institute (AIS) is an International Honorary Association of accomplished individuals in the area of science and technology. The primary objective of AIS Fellows is to recognize the achievement of excellence of each Fellow in his/her field of expertise, particularly in the academia, business and research at Institutions and organizations around the world.
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DOUBLE HONOUR AS OLUFOLAJI BAGS INDIAN AWARD, NIGERIAN FELLOWSHIP
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Professor David Babatunde Olufolaji, an expert in Crop, Soil and Pest Management at the Federal University of Technology, Akure has clinched a double professional award in Phytopathology and Plant Protection. Olufolaji was recently conferred with an Award on Phytopathy at an International Conference on Plant Pathology at New Delhi, India and the Fellowship of the Nigeria Society for Plant Protection (FNSPP) at the 41st Annual Conference of the Society held at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
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The Professor who was invited to the 6th Indian International Conference on Phytopathology to present a lead paper on “Prospect of biocontrol approach for plant disease management for sustainable agriculture in the tropics” became the only black Professor to chair one of the 44 sessions of the conference by chairing the 9C session.
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Olufolaji served as National President of Nigeria Society for Plant Protection (NSPP) for two terms of four years, during which he among other things established a national office for the society at the Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan. He registered the society with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), formed the Board of Trustees for the Society and regularized the Society’s journal being editor-in-chief for about nine years, feats that had not been achieved in the society’s previous 44 years of existence.
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Professor Olufolaji is the only black contributor to the book “Perspectives of Plant Pathology in Genomic Era”. The book, with 25 contributors from six continents contains current research findings in the field of plant pathology.
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FUTA, ECOWAS-ECREE PARTNER ON SMALL HYDROPOWER SYSTEMS CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
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In its sustained bid to address the challenge being faced by Nigeria and the West African sub region in the power sector, the Federal University of Technology, Akure has championed a training programme aimed at building capacity in hydropower systems. A Team of International experts from ECREE-ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, GIZ of Germany and the Nigerian Energy Support Groupness is partnering with FUTA Centre for Renewable Energy Technology (CRET) FUTA to develop capacity for technology in rural and small hydropower systems in the West African Sub region.
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Director, CRET, Professor Olurinde Lafe, said the hydropower system experts are in FUTA as an Integral part of the solution to Nigeria’s energy problem. He said hydropower is underutilized in Nigeria and lamented that despite the numerous gas and hydropower plants, Nigerian still has the challenge of power distribution. He emphasized the need for small scale power distribution to the nook and cranny of the country as a major initiative that would contribute to solving the challenge of power in Nigeria.
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Mr. Hannes Bauer of ECREE-ECOWAS who is leading the team of experts emphasized the uniqueness of the 3 weeks Train the Trainers Workshop saying the project has the support of notable local and international organizations. He described FUTA has a forward looking institution whose initiative in generating ideas and research for improvement of power will ultimately benefit the country. He said his organization would continue to partner with FUTA in order to firm up developmental efforts in the sub region.
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Declaring the Training of Trainers (TOT)on small hydropower systems open, Professor Daramola said FUTA is proud to host the second TOT barely six months after the maiden edition of the programme “it is worth mentioning that this 2nd edition is principally sponsored by ECOWAS Regional Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREE) and I acknowledge the commitment and determination ECREE to develop human capacity and improve living conditions in and around the ECOWAS sub-Region” he added. Professor Daramola said, despite the fact that Africa holds about 12% of the world’s hydropower potential with a technically feasible output of about 1,800 terra-watt hours per year, yet Africa produces only about 3% of the global hydropower and exploits less than 10% of its technical potential. This reality he said “underpins the strategic importance of the training programme whose resource persons were drawn from CRET, (FUTA), Engineering Materials Development Institute (EMDI) Gbenga as well as FUTA’s Civil and Environment Engineering Departments.
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He appreciated the significant role played by Mr. Hannes Bauer, ECREEE’s sustainable Energy experts and the generous supports by other local and international organization, including GIZ of Germany, the Nigerian Energy support programme (NESP), and the display of high sense of responsibility by Mr. Olatunde Isiolaotan of Nigerian Energy support programme (NCSP-GIZ).
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The Training of Trainers on Small Hydropower Systems with participants from six West African countries namely, Benin Republic, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Cote-Divoie, Liberia and Nigeria will last for 3 consecutive weeks.
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SCHOLARLY OPEN-ACCESS PUBLISHERS PRESCRIBE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR JOURNAL PUBLISHERS
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Scholarly Open-Access Publishers have prescribed principles of transparency and best practices in scholarly publishing for Institutions of Higher Learning. The prescribed code deals with issues on editor and staff, business management, integrity and poor journal standard/practice. It recommends that scholars should read available reviews, assessments and descriptions provided on the link https:// scholarlyoa.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/criteria-2015.pdf to help make informed decisions on the submission of articles, serving as editors or on editorial boards. The Open-access publishers evaluate the process of publishing by closely, cautiously, thoroughly and at times skeptically examining publishers’ content, practices and websites with a view to maintaining quality.
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More information is available on the University website – www.futa.edu.ng
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FUTA STUDENT WINS TONY ELUMELU’S $10,000 GRANT
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Michael Olorunfemi John, a 500 level student in the Department of Transport Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has been awarded a $10,000 seed capital grant by the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Foundation Programme (TEEP) for emerging entrepreneurs. Michael emerged one of the 1,000 African entrepreneurs selected from the 45,000 who presented applications for start-up grants. The Former Team Leader of ENACTUS (SIFE FUTA) struck the chord for a spot in the 2nd edition of the grant award by a presentation of an ICT driven agricultural business plan which is proposed to bridge the gap between rural farmers and urban end users among other things.
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The grant which is aimed at empowering and assisting young entrepreneurs commence the process of production and supply, as well as the creation of jobs is split into two tranches. The first is a $5,000 access free grant while the second would be translated into a $5,000 equity share facility or a flexible non-profit oriented loan facility. The grant would be disbursed after the foundation’s mentorship programme organized for beneficiaries from 51 African countries between the ages of 21 and 40, commencing in May, 2016.
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The TEEP is a foundation that aims at gathering investment and entrepreneurs who will bring both the ability to attract capital and necessary support for those who will help Africa harness its enormous potential in creating extra ordinary opportunities across the continent.
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OBOH IS FOCAL PERSON AS FUTA HOSTS GERMAN FOUNDATION CONFERENCE
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The Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) Foundation has approved Twenty-Five Thousand Euro (Euro 25,000.00) for Professor Ganiyu Oboh of the Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure to host a Humboldt Kolleg (Conference) between 12th and 16th February, 2017 with the theme ‘Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: Translating the knowledge of Food Bioactive Compounds to Effective Health Care Delivery in Developing World’. As part of incentives, the AvH Foundation will cover travel expenses for two researchers from Germany to participate in the Kolleg.
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A letter signed by Dr. Daniela KneiBI encouraged Humboldtians to key into the aim of the Foundation which is to organize Humboldt Kollegs in as many countries as possible at intervals while wishing Professor Oboh success.
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The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, fnaae, in a congratulatory message said Professor Oboh had achieved a great feat by attracting the support of the Foundation to host the Kolleg again in FUTA, noting that the University will continue to support advancement and collaborations in cutting edge research.
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ADEMOSUN WINS AFRICAN-GERMAN NETWORK GRANT
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Dr. Ayokunle Ademosun of the University’s Department of Biochemistry has placed the University on the front burner of academic excellence. Ademosun was recently awarded the African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant for Junior Researchers 2015. The award, valued at EUR 1000 is sponsored by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). It also comes with the possibility of Ademosun seeking a more prestigious post-doc fellowship and the opportunity of joining the ranks of AGNES fellows. This is in recognition of his academic prowess and an encouragement to seek further opportunities in research, particularly contributing to the scientific welfare of the African Continent. Conveying the message, the AGNES Governing Board and the wider AGNES community wished Ademosun unlimited success in future research endeavours.
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The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, fnaae, while congratulating Dr Ademosun described the award as a further testimony to the excellence and diligence that have become the hallmarks of faculty staff members and students of FUTA.
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MANAGEMENT APPOINTS AKINDELE ACTING DIRECTOR INTERNAL AUDIT
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The University Management has appointed Mr. Peter Olusola Akindele as Acting Director, Internal Audit. Akindele, a B.Sc and HND Accountancy graduate of Imo State University Owerri and the Polytechnic Owo, (now Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo) joined the services of the University as Chief Accountant in 2002 and rose through the ranks to become Deputy Bursar in 2009 and Acting Bursar in December, 2013. He also served as a Finance Officer for STEP-B Project and a Coordinator of the Bursary Department.
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Before joining FUTA, Akindele worked both in the private and public sectors. Some of which are, Lever Brothers Nigeria Ltd., Lagos as Internal Control Manager, Banilux Group, Lagos as Group Manager and Ondo State Investment (Holding) Company Limited as Group Audit Manager and Group Planning Manager. Akindele has a vast knowledge of Auditing and Accounting having trained locally and internationally. He attended international seminars and trainings in Kenya, Singapore and London.
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Born on 5th December, 1959, Akindele is a member of key Professional bodies including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Chartered Institute of Taxation.
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He is married with children.
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FUTA STUDENTS SHINE AT PETROLEUM EXPLORATIONISTS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
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Students of the Federal University of Technology, Akure took the lead in the Students category of the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) International Conference held recently at Eko Suite, Lagos. The conference and exhibition which was the 33rd edition saw six students of the University winning in the NAPE Young Professional Competitions category. Asubiojo Folaseye of the Department of Applied Geology won a Nokia Lumia worth One Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira, while Afolabi John and Akinladenu Iyanu of the Departments of Marine Science Technology and Applied Geology won an I-Pad worth One Hundred and Fifty Thousand and a Samsung Galaxy Tablet worth One Hundred and Seventy Thousand Naira respectively. Three other students also won prizes. 25 students from various Departments in the School of Earth and Mineral Sciences [SEMS] attended the exhibition.
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At the exhibition, some alumni of the University who are in the downstream sector were on ground to sensitize and mobilize FUTA NAPE Students for professional development especially on the expectations of the Oil and Gas Industries. The Director, Advancement Centre, Professor Peter Aborisade and Head, Department of Applied Geophysics, Professor Adekunle Enikanoselu responded to issues surrounding Postgraduate Studies in Applied Geophysics, Applied Geology, Mining and new research areas as they relate to exploration.
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To foster better relationship between the University, students and its alumni, the Chief Development Officer, Advancement Centre, Mr. Enoch Ajayi interacted with various Petroleum Companies that took part in the exhibition at the Conference. The aim of the interaction was to facilitate a link between the University and the organization for collaboration, especially in the area of Students Industrial Training Placements.
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FULL LIST OF STUDENTS THAT WON PRIZES
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1. JAYEGBA, Iyewumi E. (Bag)
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2. CHIJOKE, Chikodi G. (Pressure Pot)
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3. AJAYI, Adewale M. (Nokia lumia)
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4. AKINLADENU, Iyanu F. (Samsung Galaxy)
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5. ASUBIOJO, Folaseye E. (Nokia lumia)
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6. AFOLABI, John (Apple iPad mini)
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STUDENTS THAT PRESENTED PAPERS
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1. Abe S.J, Kafinsanwo O.O, Ojo B.T, Oluwadare T, Olowokere, M.T ---- Petrophysical Analysis and Geological Model of Reservoir Sands in Bright field, Onshore, Niger Delta.
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2. Akinwumi Ayodeji, O. Ajaka, E.O. Chukwuma, O.C Babafemi ---- Design Fabrication and performance test of Laboratory size modular oil Refinery.
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CALL FOR CONCEPT PROPOSALS: STAARS INITIATIVE
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Application deadline: 30th April, 2016 In collaboration with Cornell University, the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP) will provide technical mentorship and support for early-career African researchers who will be selected through this competition for fellowship under the STAARS initiative.
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The Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP) is calling for concept proposals for the Structural Transformation of African Agriculture and Rural Spaces (STAARS) fellowship, supported by the International Center for International Development (IDRC) of Canada. The STAARS project is a collaboration with Cornell University, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), and the World Bank.
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The STAARS project builds on the World Bank “Myths and Facts in African Agriculture” project to pursue in-depth, rigorous, policy-oriented research on the causal determinants of productivity and income growth, asset accumulation, rural employment and risk management in African agriculture and rural spaces.
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Find out more about the STAARS initiative.
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Through this competitive call for proposals PEP aims to provide competitive grants for travel and training for bright early career African researchers, i.e. late stage Ph.D. students or African-based researchers who have completed their Ph.D. in 2011 or later. Selected STAARS fellows will be paired with mentors at Cornell University with whom they will jointly author a paper on a topic of mutual interest relating to structural transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. PEP will support the publication of resulting research findings in high quality journals and as working papers. In addition, PEP will facilitate fellows’ participation in scientific and policy conference.
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Prospective STAARS fellows are invited to develop proposals in the following thematic areas:
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- Employment and income sources, key determinants of household income diversification within the agricultural sector and interlinked non-farm sectors in rural areas in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrnrn
- Employment intensity, patterns of labor productivity and family labor time allocation (men, women, and children) across farm and non-farm activities in rural areas and how these affect competitiveness of agricultural employment in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrnrn
- Seasonal labor market imperfections and rigidities, including wages that affect employment in rural areas, the key determinants of out-migration of labor from rural areas, with special emphasis on youth, and opportunities for productive employment in the farm and non-farm sector in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrnrn
- Promising policy interventions to foster decent employment, income diversification and poverty reduction in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrnrn
- Financial inclusion for small-scale producers and women, and resilience of livelihoods against shocks in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrnrn
- Rural factor market performance for agricultural transformation in sub-Saharan Africa. rnrn
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Please note that STAARS fellows’ rigorous policy analysis should use existing panel data, such as the Living Standards Measurement Study - Integrated Surveys on Agriculture (LSMS-ISA) or similar datasets. LSMS-ISA panel datasets are available for a number of countries in Africa including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Malawi and Uganda.
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Applicants are required to prepare a maximum 2500 word (5 page) concept proposal in English, which motivates the selected research issues and objectives, outlines data sources, proposed methodology and contains a convincing plan for completing the project by publishing findings before December 31, 2016.
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Submit your concept proposal before April 30, 2016 via email to [email protected]
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Follow this link for more information.
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PROJECT PARTNERS
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http:www.pep-net.org/sites/pep-net.org/files
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/African Development Bank logo.png https://www.pep-net.org/sites/pep-net.org/files
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/The_World_Bank_logo.png https://www.pep-net.org/sites/pep-net.org/files
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/Cornell University logo.png
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https://www.pep-net.org/sites/pep-net.org/files
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/African Economic Research Consortium logohttps://www.pep-net.org/sites/pep-net.org/files/IDRC logo.png
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INVITATION TO 27th CONVOCATION CEREMONY
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The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, fnaae, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Staff and Students of the University invites the general public and graduating students for the 2014/2015 academic session to the activities marking the 27th convocation ceremony as scheduled:
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DATE rnrn |
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EVENT rnrn |
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VENUE rnrn |
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TIME rnrn |
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Friday, 13th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Press Briefing rnrnrnv Jumat Service rnrn |
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v T.I Francis Auditorium rnrnrnv FUTA Central Mosque, Obanla rnrn |
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v 10.00 a.m. rnrnrnv 2. 00 p.m. rnrn |
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Saturday, 14th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Students’ Variety Day rnrn |
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v University’s Sports Complex rnrn |
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v 6.00 p.m. rnrn |
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Sunday, 15th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Interdenominational Service rnrn |
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v St. Albert Catholic Church, Obanla, FUTA rnrn |
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v 9.00 a.m. rnrn |
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Monday, 16th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Novelty Football Match rnrn |
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v University’s Sports Complex rnrn |
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v 3.00 p.m. rnrn |
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Tuesday, 17th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Excellence and Productivity rnrnrnAward Night rnrn |
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v Lawn beside the Senate Building rnrn |
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v 5.00 p.m. rnrn |
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Wednesday,18th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Career Talk rnrn |
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v CCE (Hilltop) Auditorium, FUTA rnrn |
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v 10.00 a.m. rnrn |
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Thursday, 19h Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Alumni Meeting rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn v Convocation Meeting rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn rnrnrn v Alumni Dinner rnrn |
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v T. I. Francis Auditorium rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn v T. I. Francis Auditorium rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn rnrnrn v T. I. Francis Auditorium rnrn |
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v 10.00 a.m. rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn v 12.00 noon rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn rnrnrn v 6.00 p.m. rnrn |
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Friday, 20th Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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Convocation Lecture rnrnrnTitled: Repositioning Nigeria rnrnrnUniversity System to Defeat the rnrnrnChallenges of Today and Winning rnrnrnin the Twenty Second Century, to rnrnrnbe delivered by: Prof. Dapo rnrnrnAfolabi, CFR, Former Head of rnrnrnService of the Federation rnrn |
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v The University Auditorium rnrnrnrnrn |
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v 3.00p.m. rnrn |
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Saturday, 21st Nov., 2015 rnrn |
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v Commissioning of Projects rnrnrnv Investiture of Chancellor, HRM rnrnrnAlhaji (Dr.) Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, rnrnrnEmir Of Bauchi rnrnrnv Award of Certificates, Diplomas rnrnrnand Sub-Degrees, Award of First rnrnrnDegrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, rnrnrnMaster’s Degrees, Doctorate rnrnrnDegrees and Conferment of rnrnrnHonorary Degrees. rnrnrnv Convocation Luncheon rnrn |
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v Project Sites rnrnrnrnrnrn v The University Auditorium rnrnrnrnrnrn v The University Auditorium rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn rnrnrn v Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge rnrn |
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v 8.00 a.m. rnrnrnrnrnrn v 10.00a.m. rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn v Immediately after investiture rnrnrnrnrnrn rnrnrn v Immediately after Convocation rnrn |
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***INFORMATION FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS
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It is mandatory for graduating students to participate in the academic procession fully dressed in approved academic gowns.
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Academic gowns are limited and will be given out to graduating students on first come first serve basis after the payment of
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appropriate fees.
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Graduating students should liaise with appropriate officials of their schools for invitation cards, details of the ceremonies and other
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related instructions.
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SIGNED
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Dr. (Mrs.) M. O. Ajayi
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Registrar
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HOW TO ACHIEVE VALUE FOR MONEY IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
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---FUTA DON
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A Professor of Quantity Surveying at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Professor Deji Rufus Ogunsemi has set an eleven- point agenda for governments and stakeholders on how to ensure value for money and improve the construction sector. Ogunsemi who delivered the 71st Inaugural lecture of the Institution spoke on the topic “Value for Money in Construction Projects: The Quantity Surveyor’s Quest.” The Don who spoke largely on the concept of value for money in the industry said the aim is not only to build good structures, but also to ensure that the right structures are built to meet the requirements of all stakeholders, particularly the end users. He emphasized the need for Economy, Efficiency and Effectiveness (3E) which he said are relevant to construction projects. This according to him include how much the project costs, how well is the money being used and if the money is being spent on the right things to meet the expectation of stakeholders.
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According to him, the adoption of best practices in the design, construction and post-occupancy stages of the delivery process should be devoid of corruption, nepotism, ethnicity and religious bigotry. Ogunsemi further advocated introduction of innovative cost design solution such as whole life costing, value management and lean construction that will involve doing more for less.
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Other suggestions proffered by the Don include availability of comprehensive documentation at the commencement of projects; enforcement of effective cost planning at the design stage for construction; a careful evaluation of procurement options; employment of quantity surveying firms to examine reports; the involvement of all stakeholders, including end users in the design and implementation of construction projects; inclusion of a quantity surveyor on the national council of public procurement; a comprehensive research in selected areas such as national labour output, cost databases and benchmarking the cost of construction projects, among others.
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He further called on government to ensure domestication and full implementation of both the national building code and the procurement act by state and local governments as these would assist in
