AUST Marks Africa Day 2026 with Call for Indigenous Innovation and African Renaissance

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja joined the whole world on Monday, May 25 to mark the Africa day.

Themed “Celebrate Culture. Embrace Identity. Show Your Style,” and hosted by the Centre for Pan-African and Peace Studies (CEPAPS) at the African University of Science and Technology, was marked by colourful cultural displays, intellectual reflections, and renewed calls for Africa’s technological and developmental renaissance.

Delivering his welcome address, the President of African University of Science and Technology, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, urged researchers and scholars to revisit Africa’s indigenous systems and traditional knowledge in addressing modern challenges such as waste management and sustainable development.

Speaking on the need to embrace Africa’s originality and innovation, Prof. Onwualu observed that African societies had long-established systems for managing waste and community resources before the emergence of modern technologies. He encouraged researchers to study and improve upon these indigenous practices to make them relevant for contemporary development.

The AUST President further called on Africans to change the global narrative about the continent through technology and innovation. According to him, Africa possesses immense human capital capable of driving global transformation.

“Today, I want to ask all of us to join in the new Africa agenda, which is using technology to change the narration. The story of Africa as the dark continent needs to change,” he stated.

He added that, as an institution dedicated to science and technology, AUST has a responsibility to contribute meaningfully towards Africa’s development and renaissance.

The celebration, compered by Ms. Lizzy Asomugha, witnessed active participation from staff and students, all elegantly dressed in vibrant traditional attires representing diverse African cultures and identities.

Highlights of the event included cultural exhibitions, music and dance performances, media showcases, and the announcement of winners in the best cultural attire categories. Mr Ayuba Danlami emerged winner in the male staff category, while Ms Peace Ayuba won the female staff category. In the student category, Temilade Akiode emerged winner in the female category, while Fanyam Terkuma Lawrence won the male category for their outstanding cultural representation and participation.

The celebration concluded on a joyful and inspiring note, reaffirming the university community’s commitment to promoting African heritage, unity, creativity, and innovation in line with the ideals of Africa Day 2026.