Universities Must Tackle Host Communities’ Challenges — Ex-VC!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
Prof. Ekanem Braide, former President of the Nigerian Academy of Science and ex-Vice Chancellor, has called on Nigerian universities to prioritize addressing the unique socio-economic and developmental issues facing their host communities.
What We Know:
- Braide made the call during a lecture on university-community engagement.
- She emphasized that research and innovation should directly benefit surrounding populations.
- Cited poor health services, lack of infrastructure, and unemployment as key areas needing academic input.
Quote:
“A university’s relevance is not just in publications, but in the impact it makes on the people around it.”
— Prof. Ekanem Braide
Why It Matters:
- Promotes socially responsive research and community-centered learning.
- Could foster mutual trust and reduce conflict between institutions and locals.
- Enhances universities’ roles as development hubs, not just academic centers.
What to Watch:
- Initiatives linking student research to local problems.
- New policies from university leadership on community service.
- Partnerships with local governments for grassroots development.
Sources:
- Nigerian Academy of Science Forum – Nov. 1, 2025
- Sele Media Higher Education Desk
About The Author
Discover more from Sele Media Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!