The University of Abuja has awarded N5.45 million in research grants to six exceptional undergraduate student teams, aiming to fuel groundbreaking research that addresses pressing societal challenges.
This funding represents the largest allocation since the university launched its research initiative, underscoring its commitment to nurturing future leaders and innovators.
The grants were presented on Tuesday during the 6th Undergraduate Research Day, a key event organized by the university’s Centre for Undergraduate Research.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aisha Maikudi, in her address, highlighted the importance of research in national development and problem-solving.
“At the University of Abuja, we are dedicated to creating an environment where curiosity, creativity, and innovation thrive to produce solutions for societal issues,” Maikudi stated, urging students to view research as a catalyst for change.
She emphasized that the event’s theme, ‘Promoting National Development Through Research,’ aligns with the university’s broader vision of fostering impactful, solution-driven inquiry.
Prof. Maikudi also applauded the efforts of the Centre for Undergraduate Research and reassured students of the institution’s ongoing support. She underscored that such initiatives are essential for preparing students to become influential thought leaders who can drive positive change across various sectors.
Explaining the grant selection process, Prof. Taibat Atoyebi, Director of the Centre for Undergraduate Research, noted, “Out of 20 teams that initially expressed interest, 13 were shortlisted to submit research proposals. After thorough oral defences, six teams were chosen based on the originality, sustainability, and feasibility of their projects.”
The successful projects funded include research on topics such as the anti-anaemic and hepatoprotective effects of bioactive compounds from plants, biosafety and waste management practices in abattoirs, the use of vermitechnology in sustainable agriculture, and the application of artificial intelligence to model energy consumption in students’ hostels. Other projects explore the phytochemical properties of curry leaves and the antimicrobial potential of certain plant species against drug-resistant bacteria.
With these grants, the University of Abuja is not only investing in the academic success of its students but also fostering innovative research that has the potential to create real-world solutions for Nigeria and beyond.
Leave a Reply