The Centre for Innovation in Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (CIPESS) at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM) has significantly impacted lives across North Central Nigeria, according to Professor Simon Shomkegh, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the program.
During the Fourth Cycle of Stakeholders Engagement Meeting in Makurdi, Professor Shomkegh highlighted CIPESS’s success in enhancing human capacity through its training and development programs. He noted the Centre’s achievements are evident from the numerous requests for staff training, the placement of CIPESS trainees in key governmental and agency positions, and the ongoing engagement of stakeholders.
Professor Shomkegh urged stakeholders to support the CIPESS curriculum review, increase the visibility of its programs, and sponsor student research aimed at addressing industry challenges. He emphasized the importance of maintaining active internships and sustaining SPESSE (Specialized Procurement, Environmental, and Social Standards Education) programs.
Professor Lami A. Nnamonu, Director of CIPESS, reinforced the need for regular updates to stakeholders, who serve as crucial intermediaries between the Centre and the industry. She praised the Centre’s engagement activities and encouraged open discussions to benefit both the Centre and its stakeholders.
Professor S.T. Kpelai, Deputy Centre Leader for Procurement Standards, detailed the Centre’s sustainability plan, which focuses on bridging gaps in procurement, environmental, and social standards while preparing academics and practitioners for effective roles. He stressed the importance of community, financial, and organizational strategies for project sustainability.
Presentations by Dr. Simon Tyoakosu, Dr. Sylvester Tongu, and Dr. Victor Otene provided insights into research areas in procurement, environmental, and social standards, urging stakeholders to identify additional research opportunities to tackle societal challenges.
The Vice Chancellor of JOSTUM, Engr Professor Isaac N. Itodo, praised the Centre’s management for their efforts. Represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Professor F.A. Ayatse, Itodo announced the Governing Council’s approval to convert CIPESS into the Institute of Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (IPESS), reaffirming the university’s commitment to the Centre’s ongoing success.