VC urges pioneer PGD students to research on COVID-19 cure

Patrick Ekpo

The Vice-chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Nse Essien, has challenged the pioneer post graduate students of the institution to channel their research efforts towards finding a solution to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The VC asked them to take advantage of the natural resources available in the state and embark on research that would address not only specific needs of the state but also impact positively on national development 

Essien said this during the matriculation of the pioneer postgraduate students held at the TETfund hall of the institution’s main campus at Ikot Akpaden on Wednesday. 

According to him, the senate of the institution would soon adopt the University Research Policy, which had been drawn by the institution board of research, adding that management is ready to encourage departments that would pursue such meaningful ventures. 

“Postgraduate studies globally are anchored on research. Hence, the University Senate will soon consider and adopt AKSU Research Policy which has been put up by the University Board of Research. Real learning comes when competitive spirit ceases and collaborative spirit is upheld. 

“The various departments are therefore urged to collaborate and embark on research works which will address specific needs of Akwa Ibom State and impact positively on national development 

“The world is currently groping with the menace caused by COVID-19. Many countries are conducting research to arrive at the cure for the dreaded disease 

“The visibility of Akwa Ibom State University as a reputable centre of learning will be promoted if our lecturers and postgraduate students have the goal of using natural resources available in the state and embark on high-quality research and innovation and also find a cure for COVID-19. 

“The Management of the University will gladly encourage departments that would pursue such a meaningful venture,” the VC said. 

He congratulated the matriculating students on their successes saying the University’s postgraduate schools would assist the promotion of their research findings and facilitate patenting of research breakthroughs. 

A total of 197 were formally admitted into the institution’s 67 post-graduate programme, which has been approved by the National Universities Commission. 

A breakdown shows that 24 were admitted for PhD; 124 for master’s; and 49 for Post Graduate Diploma programmes.