The Faculty of Engineering (FENG) at the prestigious Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, Oyo State, commenced its 3rd Annual Faculty Conference on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Prof. Abiodun Adebowale Ojo Hall. The event, led by its LOC, Chairman Engr Fawole Taiwo Ganiyu brought together esteemed academicians, reputable engineers, and industry experts from various institutions across the country.
The theme of this year’s conference, “Technology-Enabled Entrepreneurship Ecosystems with Local Content for Economic and National Development,” aims to address pressing national issues related to technology and local content for economic growth and nation-building.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Gbade Akinteye, the Acting Rector of the institution and Chief Host of the conference, expressed his deepest gratitude to the organizing committee, presenters, guest speakers, participants, and sponsors for their unwavering dedication to the event. He highlighted the relevance of the conference theme, emphasizing the importance of using local content in economic and national development.
“The importance of technology in today’s world cannot be overstated. It is the engine that powers modern economies, the catalyst for innovation, and the bridge that connects local ideas to global markets. However, for technology to truly fulfill its potential, it must be integrated into a broader ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and values local content. To our esteemed guest speakers, thank you for taking the time to be with us. Your presence here is a testament to your commitment to advancing the fields of technology and entrepreneurship, and we are honored to have you share your knowledge and expertise with us,” Dr. Akinteye stated.
Engr. Sangotola, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, in his welcome address, thanked the invited personalities, the Governing Council and Management of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, the conference planning committee, and participants for making the program a huge success. He also emphasized the faculty’s contribution to the economic advancement of the immediate society over the years.
“The success recorded is evident in the industriousness and prompt proactiveness of the Governing Council, the resilience of the Management, the collaboration and sacrifices made by all lecturers, and most especially, the great academic staff of this faculty. Today gives us another opportunity to have a forum where academics and industries will synergize to meet the technological and innovative global needs for the enhancement of local content. This faculty has showcased many locally fabricated machines, equipment, tools, teaching apparatus, and many others in the past for use in our immediate societies,” he said.
The conference chairman, Engr. Ademola Isaac Agoro, FNSE, spoke about the significance of using local content to solve societal challenges. He encouraged the faculty to invest properly in local content and train students to produce meaningful innovations. “The role of local content in technological advancement can’t be overemphasized; any local problems must be solved locally,” Engr. Agoro stated. He made a significant contribution to the faculty and promised continued support going forward.
Engr. Aderemi Oseni, the honorable member representing Ido/Ibarapa Federal Constituency, served as one of the keynote speakers at the conference. Represented by Engr. Olayinka Alade, he discussed the theme of the conference, emphasizing that “local content development remains an integral aspect of this ecosystem, putting Nigeria in a unique position given its wealth of natural endowments and human resources. Sustainable growth and inclusive development depend on how well we preserve and promote our local content. I advise you all, as we discuss these issues, to embrace the culture of technological change, innovation, and teamwork, which has marked the practice of engineering and business enterprises over time.”
In his speech, Barrister Akeem Agbaje highlighted the relevance of a technology-enabled entrepreneurship ecosystem. “Technology-enabled entrepreneurship ecosystems with a strong emphasis on local content development are engines of innovation and socio-economic empowerment. They drive job creation and economic growth, attract investment, foster innovation and technological advancement, facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration, promote local content and cultural heritage, and contribute to inclusive growth and empowerment,” he explained.
The lead paper presenter, Prof. Ayodeji Oludare Omole, Pro-Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, represented by Prof. Ojoawo from LAUTECH, delivered a brilliant lecture on the theme of the conference. Prof. Ojoawo highlighted major Nigerian sectors where local content development is required, such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Oil and Gas, Transportation, Mass Housing, Agriculture, Education, Manufacturing, Electrical Power, Aviation, Healthcare, Waste Management, and Culture and Tourism. He also discussed the roles of a technology-driven entrepreneurship ecosystem with local content, emphasizing public awareness, the promotion and exhibition of indigenous research with local content, and the judicious utilization of available resources. He concluded by stating, “Technology has a crucial role to play in entrepreneurship ecosystems with local content development for the sustainable economic development of Nigeria.”
The faculty recognized and appreciated the unwavering support of the invited guests, presenting them with awards of excellence. The awardees were Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Engr. Ademola Isaac Agoro, Barrister Akeem Agbaje, and Prof. Ayodeji Oludare Omole.
The three-day faculty conference continues today with presentations of research work from respected researchers across the board. The conference will also feature eminent scholars tomorrow as it concludes.
