By Oboh Linus, Lafia
Prof. Saa’datu Liman, Vice-Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has called on global economies and institutions to embrace inclusive entrepreneurship as a tool for sustainable economic growth.
Liman made the call at the maiden International Conference on Innovation and Products Exhibition organised by the university on Friday in Keffi.
She said the theme of the conference: “Innovative Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development: Charting Global Economic Future” was timely, given the challenges confronting the global economy.
According to her, the world is facing climate change, food insecurity, dwindling natural resources, shifting labour markets, and rapid technological disruptions.
“To navigate these challenges effectively, the world needs development models that are not only economically viable but sustainable, driven by creativity, resilience, and inclusive entrepreneurship,” she said.
The VC said the university under her leadership was committed to repositioning itself as a globally competitive, research-driven and innovation-led institution.
She said NSUK was aligning its curriculum to 21st-century demands, modernising infrastructure, deepening research culture, and promoting partnerships between academia, industry, government and civil society.
Prof. Abdullahi Zubairu, Dean, Faculty of Administration, said innovation and sustainability were now imperative, stressing that entrepreneurs and administrators must embrace creativity to secure future prosperity.
Also, Dr. Monica Agu, Head, Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, said the department remained committed to nurturing innovative minds and equipping students with skills to thrive in a dynamic business environment.
She said the conference provided a platform to showcase students’ achievements, promote collaboration and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Keynote speakers, including Dr. Martyna Wronka-Pospiech (Poland), Mr. Suleiman Abubakar, Executive Director, Planning, Imani Group, and Prof. Mohammed Mainoma, urged scholars, industry players and innovators to redefine entrepreneurship for global advancement.
Dr Vincent Paul, Chairman, Local Organising Committee, said the conference sought to promote lifetime sustainability through students’ innovations and entrepreneurship projects.
He said entrepreneurship should go beyond profit-making to embrace inclusiveness, sustainability and innovation to tackle pressing societal needs.
The three-day conference featured exhibitions of products by students, including disinfectants, soaps, shea butter, creams, air fresheners, shoes, fabrics, cosmetics, bags, jewellery and pastries, among others.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA