AUST President Highlights Youth, Industry Collaboration Ahead of Africa X Summit

The President of the African University of Science and Technology, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, has emphasized the importance of collaboration among researchers, government, industry players, and entrepreneurs in driving innovation and economic growth across Africa.

Prof. Onwualu made this known during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) while speaking on preparations for the forthcoming Africa X Summit, scheduled to hold from April 22 to April 25, 2026.

Responding to a question on how the Africa X Summit intends to bridge gaps in science asked by Mr. Uche Ariunne, Head, Science & Tech Desk, the AUST president explained that the primary goal of the summit is to address the challenge of commercializing research and innovation in Nigeria and across the continent.

According to him, the summit is designed to bring together researchers, government agencies, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to create stronger linkages that will enable research findings to move from laboratories into the marketplace. He noted that fostering collaboration between innovators and investors is critical to ensuring that scientific discoveries translate into practical solutions that benefit society.

He further disclosed that the initiative is exploring collaboration opportunities with the petroleum sector, particularly the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), as part of efforts to strengthen innovation and industrial partnerships.

When asked directly, “Are we expecting Dangote company or other big industry players, and can you mention some?” Prof. Onwualu confirmed that several major companies have been invited to participate in the summit. These include the Dangote Group, BUA Group, and Cadbury Nigeria, alongside commercial banks and key players in the financial and manufacturing sectors.

He explained that one of the major groups expected at the summit will be startups, particularly those operating in technology-driven sectors such as artificial intelligence and emerging digital solutions. According to him, increased participation from startups is expected to encourage greater investment in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on youth participation, the NAN interviewer, Dr. Wole Sodeeq, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, asked about the level of involvement of young people in the summit. In response, Prof. Onwualu described youth as the main drivers of the initiative, noting that the summit is specifically designed to showcase their creativity and technological capabilities.

He disclosed that the summit is targeting about 1,000 participants, with approximately 50 percent projected to be young people. He added that empowering young innovators remains central to the vision of the summit.

Providing further insight into the university’s innovation ecosystem, Mr. Ariunne requested that the president share more light on the university innovation hub. Prof. Onwualu highlighted the role of AUST Inspire, the university’s innovation hub, which supports innovators by providing essential resources such as equipment, internet connectivity, electricity, and market access.

According to him, the hub is designed to nurture young innovators and help them transform their ideas into viable startups capable of addressing real-world challenges.

On policy matters, Prof. Onwualu was also asked whether government should consider reviewing the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) policy to accommodate more institutions. In response, Prof. Onwualu called for reforms that would allow broader intervention across universities, stressing that national educational support through TETFund should benefit all Nigerian tertiary institutions, including privately owned educational institutions.

He further noted that the university has established partnerships with key organizations to strengthen research and capacity development. These include the National Space Research and Development Agency, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, and the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology.

Responding to another question on his message to young Nigerians who aspire to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the university president encouraged them to focus on solving practical problems facing the country, particularly in areas such as electricity, water supply, and transportation.

He advised students to carefully study national challenges while in school and develop practical skills alongside their academic training. According to him, identifying solutions to local problems can create opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development.

Looking ahead to the university’s 20th anniversary in 2027, Prof. Onwualu reflected on the institution’s growth since its establishment. He noted that the university began with only two academic schools but has since expanded to six schools, including programs in business and innovation.

He added that the institution now offers certificate courses, short professional programmes, and multiple learning centres while training scholars from across Africa. He also highlighted the presence of an African Development Bank-supported laboratory on campus as one of the university’s notable achievements.

The Africa X Summit, according to the AUST president, is expected to serve as a strategic platform for collaboration among stakeholders in science, technology, and industry, with the ultimate goal of accelerating innovation and sustainable development across Africa.

The NAN news crew members include, Dr. Wole Sadeek— Deputy Editor-in-Chief, NAN; Mr. Uche Anunne — Head, Science & Tech Desk, NAN; Mrs. Olasunkanmi Onifade — Senior Editor, Science & Tech Desk, NAN; Mr. Ahmed — NAN Multimedia.

Joining the President at the interview were, Prince Obioha Atulomah, Head of Media Services/PR, AUST; Mr.Chidiebere Uchendu, Admin Assistant, Media Services/PR.