Get Guardian on GoogleThe European University of Nigeria (EUN), has unveiled a N50 billion endowment fund to enhance research development across specialised disciplines.
The Chancellor EUN Sen. Nicholas Ukachukwu who unveiled the grant during the maiden matriculation ceremony of the institution said the aim was to position the university as a centre of innovation and practical problem-solving.
The grant according to him will support research in key fields including medicine, information and communication technology (ICT), and other technical disciplines.
The Chancellor said the fund was designed to ensure that research conducted at the institution lead to practical solutions and profitable outcomes, rather than ending up in academic archives.
He explained that the aim of the university was to create a system where research progresses from concept to real-world application, particularly in areas such as drug development and technological innovation.
Senator Ukachukwu noted that developing a drug or major technological solution requires extensive processes, equipment and specialised skills, adding that EUN aims to provide the necessary infrastructure for such discoveries.
He emphasised that the university’s research framework would be guided by a results-driven approach. He thereby appeal to well meaning Nigerians to contribute to the N50 billion endowment fund to enhance utilisation of research findings saying the investment will go a long way to impact lives.
Ukachukwu said the goal was to nurture students who could think beyond conventional examinations, develop original ideas and create solutions that address societal needs.“If you can find something that solves a problem or provides value to people, you are already creating wealth,” he added.
He also said that while the university remains open to collaboration, the institution would drive its own research agenda, noting that government institutions may eventually partner with the university to benefit from its facilities and expertise.
“I didn’t say we would partner with the federal government; the federal government will partner with us. We are building a centre of excellence with the best professionals, technology and equipment,” he said.
Ukachukwu expressed confidence that within the next one to five years, the institution would begin to demonstrate tangible outcomes from its research investments.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Emmanuel Ibezim, charged the pioneer students to pursue academic excellence, discipline and innovation as they begin their academic journey.
He said the institution was committed to producing graduates who are intellectually sound, ethically grounded and globally competitive.
“Your admission into this university is a testament to your hard work and potential. However, admission is only the first step; what truly matters is what you do with the opportunity before you,” he told the students.
The Vice-Chancellor assured that the university would provide quality teaching, modern laboratories, digital resources and mentorship to support students’ academic development.
He urged them to embrace critical thinking, creativity and innovation, while making effective use of available academic resources.
