The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and industry-relevant research through a comprehensive workshop on research methodology and undergraduate project writing organised for students of the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences.
The workshop brought together faculty members and students, particularly those in the 300 and 400 levels, to deepen their understanding of research processes, project development and academic writing standards. The initiative forms part of the University’s broader efforts to strengthen research capacity, improve project supervision and prepare students for impactful academic and professional careers.
In her opening remarks, the Head of the Department of Business Administration, Prof. Muniraf Habeeb-Yusuf, emphasised the importance of developing research projects that go beyond fulfilling academic requirements to address real-world challenges and create value for industry. She encouraged faculty members to mentor students towards producing innovative and commercially viable research outcomes.
Highlighting the growing relevance of university research to industry, Prof. Habeeb-Yusuf cited a recent example of a science and engineering thesis that attracted industry interest and was subsequently commercialised, demonstrating the potential of student-led research to contribute meaningfully to national development. She also commended the workshop coordinator, Mrs Deborah Ajeh-Iroye, for her efforts in organising the event and encouraged participants to make the most of the learning opportunity.
Providing an overview of the day’s activities, the lead facilitator, Dr Eunice Adegbola, represented by Dr Ugonna Obi-Emeruwa, Acting Head of the Department of Public Policy and Public Administration, outlined the workshop agenda and described it as an interactive and enlightening engagement designed to equip students with practical research skills.
During the presentation, students were introduced to the standard structure of university research projects, with particular attention given to the preliminary pages, including the title page, abstract, dedication, acknowledgement, table of contents and other essential components required for formal academic submissions.
Dr Obi-Emeruwa stressed the importance of academic integrity and cautioned students against outsourcing their research projects. He reminded participants that every project submitted in their name must reflect their own understanding and effort, particularly as they would be required to defend their work during oral examinations and project presentations.
An interactive question-and-answer session enabled students to identify and discuss the key elements of a research project. They were encouraged to engage actively with the material and make use of completed project reports available in the University library as practical guides for their own academic work.
The organisers also underscored the importance of attendance and participation, assuring students that future editions of the workshop would be expanded to accommodate wider participation across the faculty. Students were encouraged to take subsequent programmes seriously, as attendance and active engagement would continue to form part of their academic development.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the workshop coordinator, Mrs Deborah Ajeh-Iroye, expressed appreciation to the Head of Department, faculty members, facilitators and students for their contributions to the success of the event. She urged students to apply the knowledge gained to their coursework, term papers and final-year projects, noting that strong research skills remain essential for both academic and professional success.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment by the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences to continue organising similar capacity-building programmes aimed at strengthening research competence, fostering innovation and promoting a culture of academic excellence across the University.
The event ended with a group photograph, marking the successful conclusion of a highly engaging and impactful workshop.