By Hauwa Ali
British Council, in collaboration with De Montfort University, Leicester; PAU Institute of Life and Earth Sciences; and Co-Creation Hub has funded a training workshop for students on plastic recyling by the Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute (PAULESI), University of Ibadan.
The Director of PAULESI, Prof.TitilayoAkinlabi, stated this in an interview in Ibadan, at the end of the showcasing and training sessions held at the permanent site of the institute.
According to Akinlabi,the aim of the program was to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among Africans and the training was open to all categories of students – from primary, secondary to tertiary education students.
“The main aim of this British Council-Innovation for African Universities Project is to see how Nigerian universities can foster innovation and entrepreneurship for the circular plastic economy.
“To do this, a lot of activities had been carried out, which included sensitization and ideation sessions that explored the theoretical aspect of the circular plastic economy.
“This training, therefore, presents a fantastic opportunity for the students to experience the practical aspect of the project and explore a method that can effectively transform waste to wealth,’ Akinlabi said.
The training on plastic conversion used innovative concept of 3D printing, which many may not be aware of.
Akinlabi said that the training will open the minds of the students to possible entrepreneurship opportunities that can present itself through learning this art of 3D printing.
“The concept of 3D printing is one that is quite easy to grasp and as such, students at any stage of their education can benefit from this knowledge.
“We welcome UI students who are interested to come to the PAULESI building at any of the stipulated times to participate. We hosted a virtual session that allowed attendees from various other universities across Nigeria,” she said.
On the impact of the circular plastic economy project on Africa, Akinlabi said, “the entire project is immensely beneficial for Africa as it brings to light the menace of plastic waste.
“But also offers possible innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities, through universities, that will help to curb this menace.
“In the course of this project, funding has been awarded to a group of students in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, who have a fantastic proposal that will help tackle this problem.
“In the hopes of achieving sustainability of this project, more funding opportunities can be offered, which will contribute to achieving the aim of a circular plastic economy in Africa.” She said.
