FUGA VC Says Academic Seminars Key to Research, Innovation

The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Gashua, Professor Yaqub Ahmed Geidam, has described regular academic seminars as essential platforms for scholars to exchange ideas, present research findings and develop practical solutions to societal challenges.

Professor Geidam made the remarks while declaring open a one-day seminar organised by the University’s Faculty of Agriculture in Gashua on Monday, August 3.

He said the initiative marked another step towards strengthening research, innovation and academic excellence at the institution, urging faculties and departments to sustain similar intellectual engagements to enhance teaching, learning and community service.

Commenting on a paper titled “Urban Forestry: Opportunities and Prospects in Gashua,” presented by Professor Johnson Sunday Alao, the Vice-Chancellor said the presentation aligned with the University’s FUGA Green Code (FGC) initiative, which promotes environmental sustainability through tree planting and the development of a greener campus.

Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Bulama Ali, said the seminar was organised to provide a platform for academics and researchers to deliberate on contemporary issues in agriculture and higher education. He expressed optimism that the programme would become a regular forum for generating ideas capable of driving national development through research and innovation.

In his presentation, Professor Alao highlighted the environmental, economic and ecological benefits of urban forestry, advocating increased investment in tree planting and green infrastructure as practical measures for combating climate change, preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable urban development.

A second presentation, titled “The Role of a Head of Department in Tertiary Institutions,” was delivered by Professor Dattijo Aminu, who examined the leadership, administrative and academic responsibilities of Heads of Department. He stressed that effective departmental leadership requires accountability, transparency, teamwork, effective communication and commitment to institutional goals.

Commenting on the presentation, the University’s Registrar, Dr. Abubakar Mamuda, said the paper underscored the responsibilities of not only Heads of Department but also level coordinators, administrative officers and support staff, urging departmental leaders to foster teamwork and purposeful leadership.

The University Librarian, Dr. Adam Saleh Gambo, also called for the proper documentation and preservation of papers presented at seminars and workshops, noting that they serve as valuable academic resources for future research and reference.

The seminar attracted deans, directors, heads of departments, academic and non-academic staff, researchers and students, who described the maiden edition as a significant contribution to the University’s growing culture of scholarship, research and intellectual engagement.