In a bid to address global challenges, the Federal Government emphasizes the need for a robust presence of technologically adept young individuals, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Dr. Tijani delivered this message during the 33rd convocation lecture at the Federal University of Technology, Akure.
The minister underscored three pivotal sectors—agriculture, manufacturing, and servicing—as essential areas requiring identification and enhancement for national development. These sectors have traditionally measured the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) since 1980. Dr. Tijani’s lecture, titled “Knowledge and Research as a Foundation for a Prosperous Economy,” urged universities of technology to confront the challenges of technological advancement head-on.
Dr. Tijani emphasized the role of universities in job creation through technological innovation, urging students to actively invest in their self-development. He highlighted the need for a transformative approach in sectors like fisheries and forestry, citing the underutilization of the country’s abundant water bodies and the reliance on fish importation.
He stated, “We are not applying knowledge and innovation; we are expecting to fish like our forefathers did in the last years. Forestry is suffering the same things; coming to university is not to get degrees only, knowledge must be generated, disseminated in the way it can advance the country.”
In addition to his remarks on technological advancement, Dr. Tijani commented on the performance of financial institutions, noting that while they have made strides, there is room for improvement in aligning with national expectations.
The Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, expressed the institution’s commitment to positioning itself as a knowledge hub. She expressed satisfaction in bringing the minister to Akure for the first time, emphasizing the convocation’s goal to spotlight the university’s role in fostering knowledge and research.
The minister’s call for a technology-driven approach to national development aligns with the government’s vision to empower the youth with the skills needed to navigate and contribute to the challenges of the contemporary global landscape.
