By Michael Ezenwata
Emeka Ojukwu Centre For Research And Development has successfully delivered its 3rd International Hybrid Conference in Awka with a call for the use of the Quintuple Helix model to enhance the nation’s indigenous technology.
The call was made by the Founder and Director of the centre Prof. Uche Okpala at the conference with the theme,”Quintuple Helix model: A Veritable Tool For For Building Smart Environment, Innovative And Sustainable Economy,’
According to Prof. Okpala, the Quintuple Helix model which encompasses knowledge, policy, business, culture and ecological consciousness are veritable tools that can galvanize inclusive and practical roadmaps to a robust national economy.
The director asked participants to increase analysis in global best practices, showcase local innovations, and strengthen networks that will translate research into impact.
He unleashed the needs of the centre to include research laboratories, library, office complex, conference room, research equipments, bus for the centre and partnership with relevant agencies.
In their keynote presentations, Prof. Sani Abubakar Sambo, former Director General Energy Commission of Nigeria represented by another former Director General of the Commission, Prof Joseph Dioha, Dr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji Director National Board For Technology Incubation Abuja, represented by the Zonal Coordinator NBTI South East Dr. Ngozi Chijioke, and the Founder Femex Technology Limited and Orbital Creation Technology Limited Engr. Emeka Okafor, held a similar opinion that the quintuple helix model remains a veritable tool for building an innovative sustainable economy if effectively utilized by political actors in collaboration with all relevant Stakeholders.
In a good will message, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning in Anambra State Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake eulogized the vision of the centre and expected a synergy by all relevant stakeholders to promote the socio-economic development of the nation.
In another message, the member representing Njikoka 1 Constituency in the State House of Assembly Hon. Chidi Ibemeka, an award recipient from the centre, encouraged its efforts in promoting indigenous technology through its advocacy.
In a similar message, the acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Prof. Carol Arinze- Umobi represented by the Director Unizik Business School Prof. Pius Okoye encouraged the centre to sustain its noble efforts of promoting the ideals of indigenous technology.
The Chairman Anambra Internal Revenue Service Dr. Greg.Ezeilo in a similar vein, extolled the entrepreneurial zeal of Prof. Okpala and his associates.
Some awardees at the forum: Director Scientific Equipment Development Institute Dr. Lois Nwobodo(FNSE) represented by the Director Technical Services (SEDI) Engr. Emma Ufomba, Chief Akubueze Akachukwu represented by Chief Ifeanyi Obibuenyi, Spiritual Director Ave Maria Prayer Ministry Brother Livinus Okeke, Member representing Njikoka II Constituency in the state house of Assembly Dr. Jude Akpua represented by his Special Assistant Mr. Ejike Chidozie, Director General Waste Management Commission Imo State Dr. Justin Udegbe, Chairman Afamation Group Hon. Afam Ezenwafor and an Educationist Mrs. Rita Anarado felicitated with the centre for hosting a successful international hybrid conference.
Present during the conference were the State Commissioner for Education Prof. Ngozi Chuma- Udeh represented by Prince Benjamin Okeji of the Omasi Community among other distinguished guests.
Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
