Invest in science, technology for economic growth, Ex-NUC boss urges FG

SANGO – OTA (Sundiata Scholar) – Prof. Peter Okebukola, former Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission (NUC), has urged the Federal Government to invest in science and technology through research to drive economic growth.

Okebukola gave the advice during the 16th Convocation Lecture of Bells University of Technology in Ota on Friday.

The theme of the Lecture titled “Leveraging Science and Technology for boosting the Economy,Youth Empowerment and Enhancing National Security.”
He noted that science and technology were critical drivers of innovation and industrialisation, essential for transforming Nigeria ‘economic landscape.

“The integration of scientific research and technological advancement can help in addressing the nation’s economic challenges by promoting diversification.
“In addition, improving productivity and creative sustainable development pathways, the science and technology can also boost industrial productivity.

for instance, deploying automation, robotics, lower operational costs and enhance global competitiveness.”
According to him, Nigeria’s over-reliance on oil can be mitigated by investing in science and technology to diversify the economy.

Okebukola said that agriculture, manufacturing and information technology can benefit significantly from scientific advancement.

He highlighted other promising areas of impact of science and technology to be biotechnology in agriculture and healthcare.

Okebukola emphasised that the country could become a global leader in innovation and economic development by realising the potential through sustained commitment to investing in education, research and infrastructure.

In his welcome of address, Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran, Vice-Chancellor of the institution, reiterated the commitment of the university to producing quality graduates that would thrive in their various sphere of life.
(NAN)