In August, representatives of Preston Associates International Development visited the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research Innovation and Development and Central Office of Research at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. The purpose of the visit was to initiate the partnership process between the two bodies. Led by Dr Chris Adedigba, Senior Program Officer for Research and Academic Partnership, the Preston Associates team, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and outlined the objectives of the partnership.
Upon visit, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Development, Prof. Akanni Akinyemi, thanked the Preston Associates and the Central Office of Research Team for combined efforts on this feat, and highlighting the potential for deeper collaboration. Professor Babajide Odu, Director, Central Office of Research, emphasized the Office’s full commitment to supporting a smooth, sustainable partnership. Professor Grace Ogunlusi, Director of the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office expressed full support from the intellectual office on the partnership process.
Objectives of the partnership
- Knowledge Sharing Opportunities, where both parties are to leverage existing research data and publications for systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and generate AI-driven insights. This collaboration aims to create repository of knowledge that facilitates evidence-based decision making and innovation.
- Collaborative Proposal Development, which involves engaging the academia in proposal responses and research grants, and also harnessing expertise in diverse domains to address pressing societal challenges and pioneer new avenues of inquiry.
- Collaboration in Paper Writing and Publications, where the partnership seeks to enhance the impact and visibility of joint research through shared publications, thereby enhancing dissemination of valuable insights.
- Public Policy Research and Advocacy, which are informed by rigorous research and evaluation. Also is advocating for evidence-informed policy making by collaborating with policy makers and leveraging academic expertise to drive meaningful policy change.
Following the courtesy visit, the Preston Associates team shared the teaming agreement with Obafemi Awolowo University team, and upon reviews, an agreement was signed by both parties ensuring a smooth collaboration between Preston Associates and Obafemi Awolowo University.