Abuja: The University of Abuja (UniAbuja) has presented a total of N5.450 million in grants to six undergraduate students from different departments in the university for research projects. The Vice Chancellor, UniAbuja, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, presented the cheque to the students at the 6th Undergraduate Research Day organised by the Centre for Undergraduates Research.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the research day has its theme as: Promoting National Development Through Research. Maikudi stated that the event was an important platform that underscores the critical role of research in driving national development. She emphasized that UniAbuja is committed to fostering an environment where curiosity thrives, creativity flourishes, and innovation leads to solutions for societal challenges.
The vice chancellor highlighted that this commitment aligns with the theme, encouraging purposeful inquiry and actionable outcomes. She addressed the undergraduates as the next generation of thought leaders and change-makers, stressing that their involvement in research prepares them for both academic excellence and meaningful contributions to national growth. The vice chancellor also remarked on the importance of transforming acquired knowledge into societal progress, urging participants to engage actively, collaborate effectively, and think boldly.
Prof. Maikudi expressed the university’s intention to continue sponsoring students, emphasizing the need to nurture young talents early. She advised the researchers to use the grant money for its intended purpose and commended the centre and staff for their dedication to mentoring students and providing tools to tackle real-world problems.
Similarly, Prof. Taibat Atoyebi, Director of the Centre for Undergraduates Research, spoke about the centre’s role in promoting research and creating opportunities for undergraduates across all departments. Atoyebi mentioned that the centre has been instrumental in helping students achieve and nurture their research potential by developing their research skills to address societal challenges.
She explained that to be eligible for a grant, a student’s research must be original, acceptable, practicable, sustainable, and mentored. The research is expected to cover areas such as economic prosperity, food security, educational opportunity, quality health, climate change, and environmental protection. Atoyebi added that the centre’s goal is to foster growth with a lasting community impact.
In preparation for the research day, twenty student groups expressed interest in the centre’s research grant. Thirteen teams were shortlisted to submit research proposals and were given the opportunity to orally defend them. Six research proposals were successful and received grants. Atoyebi noted that the centre is currently receiving applications for the next batch of grants, with criteria modified to include sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event’s highlight was the presentation of the cheque to the six researchers.