By noah ocheni, Lokoja
A virologist and public health expert, Professor Oyewale Tomori on Thursday in Lokoja opined that the only way out of Nigeria’s underdevelopment is through science and technology.
Prof. Tomori made the assertion at the 8th distinguished public lecture, with the topic: “the conflicting confluence of science and society” delivered at the Festival University, Lokoja
He pointed out that, “No nation, except Nigeria which has attempted to sidetrack developing science and technology and tailoring it to her needs. Nigeria has taken a shortcut by importing other peoples finished technology, and calling it transfer of technology.”
“Nigeria imports complete knocked down parts of vehicles, and appoints a Nigerian Executive Managing Director to oversee the screwing together of these parts”
Prof. Tomori pointed out that the Success of ETF, STEP-B, TETfund has been hampered by poor mentorship & studies not focused on solving national problems, Insufficient adherence to merit in assessment of research proposals.
“For the future selection of TETFund Centres of Excellence, the Agency should identify the areas needing technological advancement and capacity building for national development.”
“TETFund should organize regular and annual project review meetings with the Centres, training and retraining programme for Centre Directors and the head of the units domiciled in the Centre.”
He pointed out that benefits of science to the society includes:
Solving societal issue, improving the quality of life, Contributes to knowledge production, driving innovation, Helps countries compete in the global economy, and Contribute to the functioning of democracies.”
“The level of scientific development is a key indicator of economic, cultural, civilizational and progressive development supporting scientific research and scientific education which is important and essential for national development.”
“Science and scientists play significant roles in the day to day life of the society teachers in educational institutions, laboratory staff in research centres, scientists in production facilities, medical & engineering fields with social scientists serving as the link for the mutual understanding”
In his opening address, the vice chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi said “In our fast changing world, the relationship between science and society is both complex and critical. Scientific advancements have the potential to transform our lives for the better, yet they also raise important ethical, social, and policy questions.”
“As an esteemed virologist and public health expert, Prof. Tomori’s distinguished career and profound contributions to science and public health policy make him uniquely qualified to address the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of science and society.”
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