Professor Onwualu Harps On The Need For More Innovation Hubs In Africa

The President of the African University of Science and Technology ( AUST), Abuja Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, FNAEng, has called on African leaders and heads of government to create more innovation hubs if the continent is to compete favourably with other technologically advanced nations across the world.
Prof. Onwualu made this clarion call in an exclusive interview with NSTI- Idea TV in his office in Abuja.
According to him "Nigeria in particular and Africa in general should as a matter of urgent need, establish more Innovation Hubs if the continent's desire to advance technologically is to be met".
AUST boss explained that with the advanced use of internet facilities across Africa, the production of products and services by  innovators in solving key Africa's needs would  be enhanced.
The university don further stated that it was in line with this field of thought, that AUST has established the AUSTInspire innovation Incubation Center with a primary role of turning the various research feats of the university in solving key Africa needs as well as train new innovators within and outside Nigeria.
He further stressed that  the lack of maker's space and Innovation Hubs, can only build, but not furnish an idea a difference he identified as hindering technology development in Africa.
Professor Onwualu then call on the African leaders to assist in providing the basic amenities, like constant electricity supplies , funding and enabling  environment to foster industrialization for the academia and industries.
Professor Onwualu who is a professor of Agricultural Engineering urged African governments to establish and adequately fund National Research Funds in their countries.