UI@75: Walson-Jack calls for collaboration between academia, public service

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, on Thursday, stated that collaboration between the civil service, political leadership, and academia will create synergies that enhance governance.

Walson-Jack emphasised that political leaders define national goals, civil servants implement these goals with technical expertise while academia provides innovative ideas and research-based solutions.

According to the Head Service of the Federation, the intersection of these three pillars creates opportunities for synergy, allowing for more effective, responsive, inclusive, and sustainable governance.

Walson-Jack made the call during the UI@75 lecture series delivered on her behalf by the Head of Service of Oyo State, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni.

The lecture was entitled: “Governance in Partnership: The Essential Collaboration between Civil Service, Political Leadership and Academia”.

She explained that the fragmentation of these sectors has caused many obstacles to our national development, adding that it was crucial to recognise that the success of any government hinges on the effective cooperation and integration of these three pillars.

She affirmed that collaboration among these stakeholders leads to better governance outcomes that would benefit society because together they form a governance ecosystem that can drive sustainable development.

She, therefore, recommended the development of a shared vision for national development that aligns with the goals of the civil service, political leadership, and academia.

She suggested the institutionalisation of platforms for dialogue to enhance governance partnerships and the fostering of a culture of innovation and openness to new ideas within the civil service and political spheres.

The HoCSF also called for the strengthening of ethical standards and transparency mechanisms to uphold integrity in governance practices and the establishment of clear frameworks and communication channels to align short-term political priorities with long-term policy objectives and academic research cycles.

Mrs. Walson-Jack advocated increased funding and resource allocation for research, training, and policy implementation.

She thanked the management of the University of Ibadan for creating the forum.

She said since the establishment of the University of Ibadan in 1948, it has blazed the trail toward its vision of becoming a world-class university in knowledge creation and dissemination.

She stated that over time, UI has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation, positioning itself as one of the best universities in the country and the world.

She said the rich history, distinguished alumni, and cutting-edge contributions to academia and society have cemented the University’s place as a leading educational institution.

Walson-Jack said the choice of the topic was both apt and commendable, as it highlighted the crucial role of effective governance in achieving efficient and successful democratic institutions, the inevitable role that higher education plays in the national development trajectory, and the essential partnerships in governance that foster collaboration towards ensuring inclusive and sustainable national development.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, acknowledged that UI Personality lectures uphold contribution to the transformation of society through creativity and innovation.

According to him, 75 is a milestone in the life of any man or an institution as UI sustains its place of pride as the first and foremost University in Nigeria.

Adebowale commended Walson-Jack for her unwavering dedication and good leadership in ensuring effective implementation of government policies in the Civil Service of the Federation.

He said the personality lecture was germane for institutional collaboration, policy formulation and implementation; research and development; capacity building and training; and knowledge sharing.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor [Administration] and Chairman of the UI@75 Anniversary Committee, Prof. Peter Olapegba stated that the university was very delighted to host a seasoned public servant and dynamic administrator as the main speaker.