By Mercy Aikoye
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has emphasized the need for Nigerian universities to make a tangible impact on the citizenry. He believes universities should move beyond ivory towers and drive national progress while contributing to global knowledge. Kalu made these remarks while delivering a convocation lecture at the University of Calabar’s 37th Convocation and 50th Anniversary ceremony.
Kalu noted that universities have a critical role to play in driving national progress and contributing to global knowledge. However, he lamented that there is a disconnect between academia and everyday life, with problems arising not from a lack of intellect but from a misalignment with society’s needs. He emphasized the need for universities to produce graduates who can solve real-world problems and make a meaningful impact on their communities.
The Deputy Speaker also highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s blue economy sector, emphasizing the need for universities to take the lead in building expertise tailored to the sector. He noted that the sector remains largely untapped, with the potential to yield $576 billion annually and create 127 million jobs by 2063 for Africa. Kalu emphasized the need for universities to incorporate hydrospace studies alongside town and cyberspace development.
Kalu also stressed the need for university curricula to be updated to reflect the changing needs of society. He gave examples of how universities can make a practical impact, such as maritime students modeling the economic impact of a decentralized port system or logistics departments partnering with fishing communities to design cold-chain networks.
The Deputy Speaker’s lecture was well-received by his audience, including his former classmates, who are known as “The Golden Ones.” He was also honored by the University of Calabar with an award for his contributions to education. The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and many senators and members of the House of Representatives.
In conclusion, Kalu emphasized the need for universities to shape the future rather than merely react to it. He believes that this can be achieved through a collective commitment to innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven education. By bridging the gap between academia and society, universities can drive national progress while contributing meaningfully to global knowledge.
