The Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe Oghara, Ethiope West L.G.A, Delta State, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, has stated that to fully leverage the nation’s resources and manpower development, the Federal Government of Nigeria needs to prioritize science-based infrastructure that can transform the narrative of underdevelopment and economic stagnation into one of progress and abundance.
Professor Ufuophu-Biri shared this insight at the school’s main auditorium during the second installment of the Delta State Polytechnic inaugural lectures, entitled “From Titbits to Network Systems: A Social Network Perspective,” organized by the institution.
He emphasized that as we confront challenges and difficulties, we must be prepared to overcome them, asserting that our nation must be adequately equipped to tackle these obstacles as a definitive pathway to development.
The distinguished professor noted the growing global awareness of the need to conserve natural resources and promote innovation for accelerated development. He stressed that Nigeria should recognize the importance of domestically harnessing a significant portion of her economic derivatives, which are crucial sources of wealth for rapid advancement.
He affirmed that digitalization represents a modern trend that facilitates communication and urged students to embrace networking and communication to enhance their knowledge and wealth creation. “We communicate to engage in intellectual discourse, utilizing networking and digitalization as tools. Our students are disciplined, well-behaved, and eager to learn. We are committed to providing them with the necessary support to develop their skills and talents. As a purely science and technology-based institution, the school is dedicated to achieving technological breakthroughs that promote development.”
He explained that his administration is fully committed to enriching academic programs significantly and ensuring a continuous supply of capable and professionally competent lecturers and management staff.
Professor Ufuophu-Biri revealed that the new administrative block is nearing completion, along with the re-roofing of the school’s modern stadium.
He commended HRM Orefe III, the Ovie of Oghara Kingdom, and the Otefe Community for their support towards the growth and development of the school.
Professor Ufuophu-Biri formally presented a 2.5KVA fuel-less generator, produced by the school, to the public.
The Dean of the School of Engineering, Engr. Collins Oghenerhoro Oniyemofe, who led the team that designed and built the 2.5KVA generator, announced that the school has also initiated a special automated pumping/drilling machine that will soon be unveiled.
The Commissioner for Higher Education in Delta State, Professor Johnbull Ogheneyerhovwo Tonukari, who unveiled the 2.5KVA fuel-less generator, praised Otefe Polytechnic for its remarkable achievements since Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri took over, encouraging other higher institutions to follow suit.
A chief lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, School of Applied Science and Technology, Mr. Akanmu Amidu Akinpelumi Gbolasere, delivered the second lecture in the series.
The chairman of the Board of Governing Council of the school (DSPT), Chief Barr. Andrew Orugbo, remarked that the Board made an excellent choice in appointing Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, asserting that he has performed exceptionally well in his role.
He noted that Professor Ufuophu-Biri has significantly improved the academic standards and development of the school as a competent administrator.
