The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, inaugurated its Academia-Industry Advisory Board on Thursday, July 25th, 2024. This initiative aims to forge strong industry connections and shape the future of petroleum education in Nigeria.
Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh FNES, Vice-Chancellor of the University and Chair of the Advisory Board, highlighted the significance of aligning academic programs with industry needs to foster innovation and progress in the energy sector. He stated, “Establishing the advisory board is a strategic move to bridge the divide between the university and the industry,” emphasizing the board’s role in equipping graduates with the skills required to meet the industry’s evolving demands.
The advisory board comprises distinguished professionals from leading petroleum firms and research institutions. It will oversee curriculum development, research direction, commercialization of research outputs, and workforce training.
During the board’s inaugural meeting, discussions focused on updating the curriculum with emerging technologies, expanding internships, and enhancing research collaborations and funding. Additionally, the board plans to partner with indigenous companies to address manpower gaps left by international oil companies and tackle industry challenges through innovation.
External Board Members include:
- Engr. A. O. Anyaoku, Former Executive Director of NNPC
- Mr. Senibo Tom, Assistant Director at the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulation Commission
- Mr. Amimbola Peter Alamu and Mr. Ovraiti Oghenekaro from Shell Petroleum Development Company
- Mr. Victor Ohwodiasa from NMDPRA
- Engr. Dr. N. J. D. Erinne, CEO of Matrix Petrochemicals Nig. Limited
- Dr. Oli Olowhu, Production Facility Manager at Elerest Exploration and Production Nig. Limited
Other members include:
- Mr. Anin Osadebe John, Managing Director of Platform Petroleum Limited
- Engr. Adekunle Olusile, National Advisor for Investment & Technology at UNIDO
- Associate Professor Bryan R. Goldsmith
- Dr. Amos Kome Onokpise of First Hydrocarbon Nig. Ltd.
- Engr. Adekunle Olusile from the UNIDO Promotion Office
Internal members include:
- Prof. Difference Ogagarue (Earth Science Department)
- Engr. Dr. Teddy Odisu (Petrochemical Engineering Department)
- Engr. Sylvester Okotie (Petroleum Engineering Department)
- Barr. Chidi Onyeneke (Secretary)
The establishment of this board marks a significant step towards enhancing the synergy between academia and industry, aiming to propel the petroleum education sector forward.
