UNIZIK don wants 30% machine components in critical sectors sourced locally
By Chinedum Treasure
A university lecturer, Engr. Prof. Ugochukwu Okonkwo has advocated for strong university-industry-research institute synergy to drive end-user-focused engineering research.
He also proposed that 30 percent of machine components in critical sectors should be sourced locally, while calling on Federal Government to revitalize the Ajaokuta Steel Complex with clear timelines.
Okonkwo, a Professor of Mechanical Design and Materials Technology made the recommendations while delivering the 126th Inaugural Lecture of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state titled, "The Engineer, Materials and Machines: Tributaries with Novelties,"
He stressed that enhancing productivity and efficiency in engineering required more than improved materials and machines.
According to him, engineers, professionally trained to apply scientific knowledge, mathematics and ingenuity to develop products or processes useful to society, must thoroughly examine operations within engineering systems and subsystems to achieve optimal performance.
"Materials are the “first language of innovation” upon which every engineering breakthrough is anchored, especially in the current era where smart materials, composites, biomaterials, metamaterials and nano-structured substances are redefining the limits of scientific creation.
"Machines are no longer merely obey commands but now interpret, adapt and collaborate," Okonkwo, current Dean of Faculty of Engineering said.
On what informed the choice of topic, Okonkwo of the Department of Mechanical Engineering said the topic stemmed from his contributions to knowledge which a bit diverse, but focused on mechanical design and material technology.
"The engineer has to ensure he harnessed the available materials which will help in the design of machines. There must be synergy between the engineer, the materials and machines, which may come in form of tributaries. When that is effectively done, innovation follows.
"Previously when one wants to make a choice of materials, he will request for the design and available materials. But these days, we request for the needed requirements and develop materials that will suit the requirement. We now collaborate with atoms and ensure uptimized materials are used in our various designs.
"We fabricate and design machines in collaboration with industries and research institutes to come out with products that will enter into commercialization instead of remaining in the laboratories and workshop perpetually.
Earlier, UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Anyaehie described inaugural lectures as core to university culture and a platform for professors to showcase research in their fields.
The VC, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Hilda Osisioma assured management’s continued support for teaching, research and community service.
Also speaking, Vice-Chairman of the Inaugural Lecture Committee, Engr. Prof. Joseph Nwabanne commended Okonkwo for his academic achievements.
The highpoint of the occasion was the decoration of the Inaugural Lecturer with the University’s Medal of Honour by the Vice-Chancellor.
