The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Matthias Schmale has proposed three essential avenues through which universities could play a pivotal role in rejuvenating the stagnant 2030 agenda. Speaking on August 28, 2023, at the inaugural session of a two-day National Conference on Agenda 2030 and SDGs, organized in collaboration with the Lagos State University Centre for the Actualization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (LASU-SDGs), Schmale emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable development into education, conducting university-based research that contributes to the SDGs, and fostering innovative interdisciplinary approaches to longstanding challenges. Furthermore, he emphasized universities’ role in guiding public policy towards sustainability, suggesting that specialized talents and analytical tools from academia could lead to policy transformation.
Schmale highlighted, “As a trusted advisor, academia will have the opportunity to shape the designs of solutions and policies that can have a genuine social impact in Nigeria.”
The conference, held at the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre on the Ojo Main Campus of Lagos State University, featured a theme of “At The Midpoint of Agenda 2030 And The Sustainable Development Goals: Which Way Nigeria And Africa?” The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, NPOM, emphasized the university’s commitment to innovative research and solutions that contribute to a better world and empower future generations.
The Director of the Centre for the Actualization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Prof. Tayo AJAYI, described LASU-SDGs’ vision of contributing to the SDGs within both the university and its immediate community. Prof. Ajayi outlined their goal to elevate Lagos State University as a global hub for scholarly training and research in diverse disciplines.
Prof. Labode POPOOLA, represented by Prof. S.O. Jimoh, discussed the role of higher education institutions as solution providers in the age of sustainable development. He highlighted the need for a blended approach to teaching and learning, placing an emphasis on virtual modes. Prof. POPOOLA noted, “In the age of sustainable development, quality higher education is required.”
Following the conference sessions, which covered a range of topics aligned with the theme, various dignitaries and stakeholders, including Deputy Vice Chancellors, University Registrars, and academic leaders, participated in the event. The conference concluded on August 29, 2023, with a series of paper presentations and the release of a communique outlining key takeaways and future actions. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olufunso OMOBITAN, officially closed the event on behalf of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, NPOM.
