Vice Chancellor Advocates Transformative Research

The vice chancellor of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, (DUFUHS), Uburu in Ebonyi State, Prof Jesse Uneke, has called for the adoption of multi-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge creation as key aspects of a transformative research system.

Uneke made the disclosure while declaring open the 35th Annual Technical Conference/AGM of Polymer.

The vice chancellor, represented by his deputy (Academics), Clementina Igwebike Ossi, called on members of the institute to focus on transformative research that will solve societal problems.

He reminded them that climate change is a multi-faceted problem that involves a multi-dimensional approach.

“As members of Polymer Institute of Nigeria (PIN), I want you to focus on transformative research in Polymer Science, to enable the country achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The theme of the Conference,’ Transformative Research in Polymer Science, Engineering and Technology for Sustainable Development – a multi-disciplinary approach, is aimed at transformation.

“It is important to remind you of your core mandate which includes the continuation of polymer research, production of materials for the development of mankind.

The national president of Polymer Institute of Nigeria, Paul Ejikeme, commended the management of DUFUHS, for the hospitality accorded to members of the body.

In a paper presentation, titled “Instruments of Managing Single Use Plastic Pollution,” Nnaemeka Andegbe Chukwuone (director, Environment for Development (EFD) Nigeria, observed that increased production and consumption of plastics lead to rapid increases in plastics releases to the environment.

“Plastic pollution in Nigeria is common due to high consumption and poor waste management, with an inefficient waste management system, both plastic and non-plastic waste ends up in drainage channels.

“Every year, 19 to 23 million of plastics enter the ocean thereby polluting everywhere,” he said.