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By Abubakar Umar
Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has commenced the 9th Annual International Conference of its Institute of Technology, with a call on researchers, innovators and industry experts to develop practical engineering and technological solutions to contemporary national and global cchallenges
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at the Rear Admiral Muhammed Alabi Lawal Auditorium, the Director of the Institute of Technology, Engr. Dr. Mustapha Zubair Oba, said the conference provides a platform for collaboration, innovation and the exchange of ideas aimed at addressing pressing societal issues through technology.
The conference, themed “Engineering/Technology: Breaking New Grounds to Tackle Contemporary National and Global Challenges,” was declared open on behalf of the Rector, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, by the Deputy Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Felicia Olabisi Awolola.
She urged participants to bridge knowledge gaps, foster innovation and contribute solutions that would advance national development.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Engr. M. Alagbe, said the conference was carefully designed to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, ensuring that research presentations and discussions translate into practical outcomes for technological advancement and policy formulation.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of Softrays Information Technology, Engr. John Ademola, underscored the importance of bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry practice.
Similarly, the lead paper presenter, Engr. Prof. Ajiboye Aye Taiwo of the University of Ilorin, advocated the adoption of artificial intelligence, intelligent systems and sustainable technologies as key drivers of Nigeria’s development.
Also speaking, the Rector of the International Vocational, Technical and Entrepreneurship College (IVTEC), Ajase-Ipo, Engr. Yaru Swanru Salihu, encouraged students to take full advantage of the conference to acquire practical skills.
The Kwara State Government, represented by the Deputy Director of Research and Development, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Musa, reaffirmed its support for innovation as the conference continued with technical sessions, research presentations and panel discussions.
Editing: Abdullah Ahmed
