The Computer Science/Information Technology Research workshop organized annually by the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) has again focused on hands-on expertise development and practical measures for bridging the IT research gap in Nigeria.
The capacity building forum recently took place at the Centre of Excellence, Information Technology and Communication Unit (INTECU) of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
Held from March 4 to 6, 2014, Professor Bamitale Omole, vice-chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), represented by Professor F. A. Akeredolu, dean, Faculty of Technology, chaired the opening ceremony.
Professor David O. Adewumi, president, Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) while welcoming participants and guests, stressed the importance of research work and outcomes in society.
He charged them to seize the unique opportunity and experience of world class research expertise and facilities provided through the workshop by NCS.
Professor Oyewusi Ibidapo Obe, former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos presented a keynote address titled, “Enhancing Research Collaboration Between Academia, Government and Industry”, while Dr. A.S. Daura, acting director general, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), also presented the keynote titled “IT/Computer Science Research and Development: an inevitable Requirement for National development”.
In the hands-on, skill building and knowledge intensive environment, quality stood out as experienced research facilitators provided research expertise, direction and leadership.
Participants appreciated the impact the workshop had in significantly improved their research abilities.
NCS was applauded for organizing such a one of its kind, world class opportunity for the country’s information technology researchers.
Notably, Dr. A. S. Sodiya, took the practical session on “Research methodology and Strategies for accessing fellowships, grants and award”, while the sessions on “Grant proposal writing” were handled by Professor G. A. Aderounmu, Deputy President of NCS.
The Cyber Security presentation and labs were expertly taken by Dr. Adedayo Adetoye and Dr. Olumide Longe. Cloud Computing was introduced by Professor Christoph Reich, an expert in Cloud computing.
Dr. Oluwatope A.O led the practical session “Introduction to, Scientific modeling and simulation”, while Dr. A.A Obiniyi exposed participants to further research growth strategies through his presentation on “Formation of Research group and Mentorship”.
In addition to the intense knowledge sharing and capacity building, an outstanding and reassuring feature of the event was the presence of distinguished academics and world class researchers.
In addition to the special guests and facilitators, other scholars present included: Professor E. Adagunodo of Department of Computer and Engineering OAU, Professor Adenike Osofisan, Former President, Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), Professor Falaki of Department of Computer Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure and Dr. (Mrs) V. Ejiofor, Chairman Publications and Research Committee NCS.
Particularly to be commended for making the 2014 research and development workshop a great success are the major sponsors – Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), MTN Nigeria and Akintola Williams Deloitte for their significant contributions towards information technology research culture and needs in Nigeria.
NCS has once more shown leadership in this critical area of information technology.
The 2014 IT Research and Development workshop is clear commitment of NCS to the learning, developing, applying and thriving of Information Technology research in Nigeria
Jide Awe, is the chairman, Publicity, Events and Trade Services Committee Nigeria Computer Society (NCS).