“You must belong to one professional body” – ESUT VC tells academic staff

The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has implemented a new policy requiring all university staff members to be registered members of a professional body. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the staff members being unable to continue holding positions within the institution.

Furthermore, the university has announced that promotions will only be granted to staff who are registered members of professional associations. Additionally, professors who do not participate in international conferences or research workshops will be prevented from advancing in their positions. Going forward, professors who neglect to attend research courses will no longer be permitted to supervise postgraduate students at the university.

These directives were announced by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Aloysius M. Okolie, during the 2023 Annual International Conference of ESUT School of Postgraduate Studies. The theme of the conference was “Enhancing and Strengthening the Capacities of Research Supervision in Universities.”

Prof. Okolie expressed concern about some lecturers ceasing their research activities once they become professors. He emphasized that academic conferences and workshops provide opportunities for intellectual growth, career evaluation, and interaction with colleagues.

Prof. Okolie also stated that deans must actively engage in intellectual pursuits, and those who do not demonstrate academic consciousness will be removed from their positions. Staff members seeking promotion must provide evidence of their registration with professional associations.

Dr. Jeff Nnamani, the chairman of the conference, expressed dismay at the lack of professionalism in Nigerian society. He noted that the conference’s theme called for deeper reflection. Nnamani identified insufficient funding as a major challenge in university education and research, asserting that university funding should not be inadequate.

The conference host and Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Sam Ugwu, emphasized that the essence of university education and scholarship lies in teaching and research. He highlighted research as a crucial tool for reshaping the socio-economic and political landscapes of societies when its outcomes are effectively utilized.

Prof. Ugwu stated that the quality of postgraduate theses and dissertations has been a concern for stakeholders in academia for many years. He expressed hope that the conference would provide participants with opportunities to acquire knowledge and improve postgraduate education and supervision skills.

The outcomes of the conference are expected to redirect attention to the importance of research and its impact.