Lecturers and other stakeholders in academia have been urged to prioritize high-quality research that will drive efficiency and enhance the economic growth of the nation.

The Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Prof. Uchenna Ugwuanyi, made this known on Thursday during the second edition of the International Conference organized by the Faculty; an event that was held at the Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Auditorium, ESUT, Agbani.

He stated that collaborations between academia, industrialists, entrepreneurs, and other key development stakeholders would not only enhance economic growth but also promote social development.

According to him, “This conference is timely. As Africa navigates its development trajectory, we must harness management knowledge, innovation, and research to provide workable solutions to our challenges. When academic minds engage with industry players, the result is progressive, people-centered development.”

“This year’s conference theme, ‘Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: Management Strategies and Practices for Sustainable Development, Corporate Social Responsibility, Environmental Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship,’ is particularly relevant. The choice of this theme is driven by the urgent need for sustainable development in Africa, where management strategies and practices can play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs.”

Prof. Ugwuanyi also urged for maximum utilization of ideas harnessed during the conference for the good of the society.

“We expect that the discussions and recommendations emerging from this conference will provide valuable insights into how organizations can adopt sustainable practices, prioritize corporate social responsibility, and promote environmental sustainability, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society. The significance of this conference and its theme cannot be overstated, particularly for Nigerian universities, students, states, industries, and Africa at large.”

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Aloysius Michaels Okolie, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Chike Nwoha, extolled Prof. Ugwuanyi’s leadership of the Faculty, particularly his commitment to academic excellence, capacity building, infrastructural development, and staff welfare.

He stated that the conference would not only contribute to existing scholarship but also proffer viable solutions to critical issues surrounding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa.

“I want to say that we are happy with what our friend and colleague is currently doing in the Faculty of Management Sciences. He has shown leadership both in action and learning, and the management is happy with him. However, the relevance of this conference lies not only in the depth of discourse but in its alignment with the global call for sustainability. We must continue to interrogate our realities and deploy strategic management practices to transform communities across the continent.”

Also speaking, the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu, described the conference as a noble academic exercise capable of igniting institutional and policy reform, especially when the insights and research findings are properly harnessed.

According to him, “Government at all levels must strengthen their relationship with academic institutions. The solutions to many of our economic and social problems already exist in the volumes of research produced in our universities.”

However, the event featured paper presentations from renowned scholars, interactive sessions, and panel discussions centered on themes such as innovation in public sector management, entrepreneurship development, and policy implementation for sustainable growth, with participants from various institutions and industries given the opportunity to explore ways to bridge the gap between research and policy formulation.

The post Prof Ugwuanyi Calls for Integration of Academic Research into National Development Policies appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

The Faculty of Management Sciences, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prof. Uche Ugwuanyi, is proud to host its 2nd International Conference on June 26-27, 2025. This year’s conference theme, “Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa,” is timely and relevant, as the continent strives to meet the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all. Africa, with its vast human and natural resources, has a profound role to play in achieving these laudable goals. However, the continent faces numerous challenges, including widespread poverty, inequality, climate change, and inadequate infrastructure.

Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT’s) 2nd International Conference no doubt provides a veritable platform for academics, researchers, policymakers, and industry experts to:

1. Discuss strategies for achieving the SDGs in Africa
2. Share knowledge and best practices in sustainable development
3. Foster partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders
4. Develop effective solutions for Africa’s sustainable development

This conference offers numerous benefits to participants in this all-important event. Some of the benefits include:

1. Networking Opportunities: Interact with renowned experts, researchers, and policymakers from across Africa and beyond.
2. Knowledge Sharing: Gain insights into the latest research, trends, and best practices in sustainable development.
3. Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster partnerships and collaborations that can lead to innovative solutions and projects.
4. Capacity Building: Enhance your skills and knowledge in areas relevant to sustainable development.
5. Publication Opportunities: Submit your research papers for publication in reputable journals and conference proceedings.

At the end of the conference, it is expected to yield several outcomes, including:

1. Research Outputs: A wealth of research papers, presentations, and posters that contribute to the body of knowledge on sustainable development in Africa.
2. Policy Recommendations: Evidence-based recommendations for policymakers to achieve the SDGs in Africa.
3. Networking and Partnerships: New partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders, leading to innovative solutions and projects.

The conference invites submissions of research papers, case studies, and posters on topics related to the SDGs, including:

• Poverty reduction and inequality
• Climate change and environmental sustainability
• Education and human capital development
• Healthcare and well-being
• Infrastructure development and industrialization
• Innovation and entrepreneurship

Registration and Participation
Registration for the conference is open. Participants can register online or on-site. The conference fee is modest and includes access to all sessions, conference materials, refreshments, and meals.

ESUT’s 2nd International Conference on “Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa” promises to be a timely and relevant event that brings together experts and stakeholders to discuss strategies for achieving the SDGs in Africa. We look forward to a highly productive and successful conference.

Maxwell Menkiti Ngene, Chairman, Committee on Publicity & Media Relations

The post Achieving The Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: ESUT’s 2nd Int’l Conference As A Paradigm appeared first on ESUT Monitor.