The Acting Vice Chancellor of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Prof Okechuku Onuchuku, has urged the Faculty of Social Sciences to focus its research on solving societal problems.
He made the call on Thursday at the Postgraduate Hall of the university during the Faculty’s 11th international conference, themed, “Social Science and the Challenge of Relevance in Contemporary Nigeria”.
Prof Onuchuku, who observed that industries increasingly seek solutions outside universities due to the theoretical nature of most research findings, emphasized that universities will continue to be neglected if they cannot provide practical solutions to societal problems.
The Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Professor Nyekachi Nyewe Amadi, welcomed participants and noted the conference’s significance in the Faculty’s history.
He stated that the University has always committed to academic excellence, as evidenced in the conference.
Professor Amadi explained that the conference provides a platform for scholars and experts to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and explore new concepts.
He emphasized the importance of collective knowledge, interdisciplinary approaches, and academic interconnectiveness.
The conference featured esteemed speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, and interactive workshops designed to catalyze intellectual growth.
Professor Amadi urged participants to actively engage in dialogue and seize opportunities to learn from one another.
The host appreciated the Acting Vice Chancellor for providing a conducive atmosphere and thanked participants for their presence, demonstrating commitment to academic excellence and knowledge pursuit. He also thanked dedicated Faculty Members for their tireless efforts and commended their commitment and passion.
He thanked the students, describing them as the University’s heart and soul, and hinted that the conference presents a unique opportunity for them to engage with renowned scholars, expand their horizons, and shape their academic journey.
Chairman Organising Committee of the conference, Professor Godspower Irikana, on his part, reiterated the theme’s aptness, given Nigeria’s current experience.
He agreed that social sciences face challenges in contemporary Nigeria, related to their role in facilitating development.
Irikana emphasised that societal challenges are indeed challenges to intellectual disciplines generating ideas and material conditions for societal survival.
He stated further that social sciences must address their relevance in understanding contemporary social problems.
The Chairman expressed the hope that the gathering would fashion a way forward in finding solutions to the dilemma.
The Secretary, Conference Organising Committee, Professor Hygenuis Oku, appreciated everyone who contributed to the conference’s success.
A Political Science Professor, William Ehwarieme of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State, gave the keynote address, while Dr. Sam Amadi, a legal practitioner and former Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Director, served as the lead paper presenter.
The conference featured ambassadorial, leadership, and service awards to deserving personalities.

By: Sogbeba Dokubo