Highlights of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic, Ukana Chapter Maiden International Conference.
Stakeholders in the education sector have underscored the critical role of emerging technologies in driving scientific advancement, innovation and sustainable economic development, as the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Federal Polytechnic, Ukana Chapter, held its maiden international conference.
The conference, themed “Emerging Technologies for Scientific Advancement, Innovation and Sustainable Economic Development”, was organised in conjunction with the 12th anniversary celebration of Federal Polytechnic Ukana and attracted academics, researchers, students and industry stakeholders.
Commissioner for Education, Akwa Ibom State
Speaking at the event, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh, described the conference theme as timely, noting that technological innovation remains central to addressing contemporary development challenges.
While acknowledging the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, Umoh cautioned against excessive dependence on technology at the expense of human creativity and critical thinking. “While we try to make life easier through technology, it should not get to the point where we become lazy. The greatest resource remains the human mind”, he stated.
The commissioner also commended ASUP for successfully organising its first international conference and praised Federal Polytechnic Ukana for its impressive academic and infrastructural growth within 12 years of establishment.
Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ukana
In her address, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Mrs Eduma Enobong Essien, said the conference reflected the institution’s commitment to promoting research, innovation and technological advancement.She noted that the Polytechnic would continue to expand opportunities for research and collaboration to position the institution as a leading centre for technological education and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Chairman, Conference Planning Committee
The chairman of the conference planning committee, Sir Elijah Nse Akwa, described the gathering as a platform for intellectual exchange and reflection on the future of technology-driven development.
According to her, hosting the maiden international conference alongside the institution’s 12th anniversary celebration was a significant milestone that highlighted the Polytechnic’s progress and growing relevance in the nation’s educational landscape.
Acting Director of the Centre for Creative Economy and Cultural Studies, Akwa Ibom State University
Head of Department, Business Administration and Management, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua
The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr Ofonmbuk Atakpa, the Acting Director of the Centre for Creative Economy and Cultural Studies, Akwa Ibom State University, while Dr Ime Robson Nseobot, Head of Department, Business Administration and Management, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, presented the lead paper. Both presentations focused on how emerging technologies can accelerate innovation, strengthen research outcomes and stimulate sustainable economic growth. Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to distinguished members of the Polytechnic community, recognition of key stakeholders, and the cutting of the institution’s 12th anniversary cake.
The conference continued with technical sessions and panel discussions expected to generate policy and research recommendations on technology, innovation and sustainable development.
