MICHAEL IKEOGWU/WARRI
THE Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, has signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with key industry players as part of its commitment to strengthen research and academic collaborations, ahead of the institution’s fourth convocation ceremony.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, disclosed this at a press briefing in Effurun, Delta State, ahead of the university’s fourth convocation ceremony.
According Prof. Rim-Rukeh, the MoUs, signed with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Cyphercrescent Limited, among others, aimed to enhance indigenous technological development and workforce capacity.
“These collaborations are vital in bridging the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation, and producing graduates equipped with relevant skills for the energy sector ,” he said.
Prof. Rim-Rukeh disclosed that graduates from the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions would be awarded their degrees, including the institution’s first-ever Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) graduates.
He said: “The ceremony marks a significant milestone in FUPRE’s academic journey as it continues to expand its research and training initiatives.”
In line with its research focus, FUPRE will host a Research and Innovation Fair themed “Innovation for Economic Growth” on March 12. The fair will showcase the university’s scientific breakthroughs, including its portfolio of 42 patents and two copyrights. “This achievement underscores our commitment to pioneering solutions that address contemporary economic and technological challenges. “FUPRE will also organize a Career Fair on March 13, themed “Empowering FUPRE Alumni for Global Career Success,” to equip students with essential career development skills. The Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, will deliver the keynote address, providing insights into global job market trends.
“In further expanding its academic scope, FUPRE has secured the approval of the National Universities Commission (NUC) for new programs in Petrochemical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Marine Transport and Logistics. “Our goal is to position FUPRE as a center of excellence in petroleum and energy studies while diversifying into emerging disciplines,” Prof. Rim-Rukeh stated.
To support research expansion, the university recently received a 123.2-hectare land donation from the Isiakolo Community in Agbon Kingdom, Ethiope-East Local Government Area.
Prof. Rim-Rukeh commended Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his support in facilitating the donation, which will be used to establish a new research center. “Infrastructure development at FUPRE has also seen remarkable progress, with the establishment of three new colleges: the College of Maritime and Offshore Studies, the College of Computing, and the College of Petroleum Management and Administration. Additionally, professional programs such as Environmental Health Management, Sustainable Development, and Petroleum Waste Management have been introduced to align with industry demands.
“FUPRE’s research excellence has gained global recognition, with students winning top awards at the Technology Enhancement Program for Software Development organized by Schlumberger and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The university also produced finalists in an international competition held in New Orleans, USA,” he added
Highlighting ground breaking innovations, Prof. Rim-Rukeh lauded a team of FUPRE researchers, led by Professors Doris F. Ogeleka, Elias Elemike, and Akinyemi Ogunkayode, for developing FAP Paints, an eco-friendly paint derived from agricultural waste.
“This innovation promotes environmental sustainability and reduces Nigeria’s reliance on imported raw materials,” he noted.
Other notable technological advancements from FUPRE include the invention of Aquastill, a nano-clay water filter for clean drinking water, as well as developments in drone technology, electric bikes, and automatic wheelchairs. These breakthroughs, according to the Vice-Chancellor, highlight the institution’s dedication to solving real-world problems through research and innovation.
As he prepares to conclude his tenure, Prof. Rim-Rukeh expressed confidence in FUPRE’s trajectory. “This convocation is not just about awarding degrees; it is a celebration of resilience, excellence, and our unwavering commitment to transforming education in Nigeria,” he said.
Dignitaries expected at the event include the Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arch Sonny Echono, and the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry (BOI), Dr. Olasupo Olusi. The fair will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, research presentations, and networking sessions aimed at fostering industry-academia collaboration.
