Says, “advance knowledge in science and technology for sustainable development”
By Mark C. Orgu, News/Comments, October 15, 2021
The Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has inaugurated the Integrated Institute of Environment and Development – IIED, an Integrated Hydrocarbon Remediation Research and Training (Demonstration) Centre, of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, (FUPRE) Obi- Ayagha in Ughelli South of Delta State. A centre aimed at encouraging interest in research and capacity building.
Omo-Agege, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Otive Igbuzor delivered the keynoted address saying that, setting such Institution in the rural area is not only a milestone to development but create environmental opportunities with positive change in the livelihoods of the people. “It is equally relevant, because humanity stands at a defining moment in history. We are confronted by the continuing deterioration of the ecosystems on which we depend for our well-being. The integration of environmental and development concerns and greater attention to them will lead to the fulfilment of basic needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and managed ecosystems and a safer, more prosperous future”.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor being entertained as he takes a step
The DSP stressed further, that there is no doubt about the mission of the Centre which is to foster an understanding of the environment through research and to translate such research efforts through teaching and community service to the production of personnel who will address and change environmental practices in an ecologically sustainable and socially just manner. More specifically you should conduct community-based research on environmental challenges that will drive policy and development. The vision should be to support the holistic approach to the protection of the environment and the improvement of people’s quality of life by developing and strengthening initiatives which are responsive, locally relevant, and aimed at transforming people’s visions and aspirations into reality for the present and future generations.
L-R, Hon. Waive with Dr. Igbuzor at the event
The Delta born Lawmaker however reminded the University of its Obligations as a science and technological based Institution to advance knowledge in science and technology for sustainable development. “It is therefore heartwarming that the Integrated Institute of Environment and Development sets out to be a world class centre of excellence for multidisciplinary graduate education, applied research and capacity building in natural resource management, environmental protection and sustainable development.”
He also charged the Institution to widen its horizon by collaborating among the different disciplines within and outside the university to pursue multi-disciplinary research and training in environment and sustainable development, focusing on regional, national and international issues while the centre should be strategic especially on impact of climate change in our environment.
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