THE Muslim Lecturers Association (MLA) has launched its national research agenda aimed at promoting academic excellence and sustainable development in Nigeria.
At its maiden national research conference held between Tuesday and Thursday last week at the Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, the association brought together about 220 scholars, researchers and industry experts to share knowledge and insights on critical national issues.
Highlights of the conference included the keynote speech by the vice chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole and a lead paper presentation on sustainable food security in Nigeria by a former deputy governor of Kano State, Professor Hafiz Abubakar.
The conference also featured a special plenary session on ethics and quality assurance in Nigerian universities led by Professor AbdulMajeed Alaro.
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The association resolved to establish branches in all 37 tertiary institutions represented at the conference, conduct a members’ population census and host its next conference in the core north to strengthen its national status.
The MLA also announced plans to publish a peer-reviewed book of conference proceedings and selected papers in respected academic journals.
Awards of recognition were presented to Muslim achievers like Professor Wahab Egbewole, Professor Hafiz Abubakar and the registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Is-haq Oloyede.
Grants amounting to N700,000 were presented to two outstanding researchers.
The MLA president, Professor Ahmed Adedeji said: “This conference marks a significant milestone in our journey towards promoting academic excellence and national development.
“We are committed to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among Muslim scholars and stakeholders.”
The conference was attended by dignitaries, including the vice chancellor of Summit University, Offa, Professor Abiodun Musa Aibinu; the vice chancellor of the Kwara State University, Malete, Professor Musbau Akanji and Profossor Is-haq Oloyede, who was represented.
