- Researchers Explore New Frontiers in Publication, Innovation and Funding
In a bold move to strengthen research culture, foster innovation and position scholars for global competitiveness, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, has convened a high-impact one-day research clinic aimed at transforming academic ideas into publishable studies, funded projects and real-world solutions.
The initiative, organized by the Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences, brought together lecturers, researchers and postgraduate students under the inspiring theme, “From Data to Paper,” with a central focus on collaboration, skills development and research funding.
Held under the banner “Work Together, Build Together,” the practical and interactive clinic featured collaboration matchmaking sessions, figure and methods clinics, innovation and start-up pitch presentations, funding and laboratory skills workshops, as well as structured pairings and follow-up support designed to sustain research partnerships beyond the event.
Declaring the programme open, the Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Professor Philip Oguntunde, challenged scholars to embrace a culture of collaboration as a catalyst for academic excellence and institutional growth.
According to him, meaningful research breakthroughs often emerge when scholars pool expertise and resources rather than operate in isolation.
“Before looking outside for international partnerships and collaborations, we must first build strong collaborations among ourselves. Internal collaboration is not about competition; it is about synergy. When we work together, we achieve results faster, cheaper and more effectively,” he said.
Professor Oguntunde noted that interdisciplinary partnerships often create opportunities that might otherwise remain untapped, describing such engagements as avenues for harvesting “low-hanging fruits” capable of generating impactful research outcomes.
The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged researchers to explore alternative pathways to publishing in reputable international journals without falling victim to exploitative publication charges that drain scarce academic resources.
He stressed that strategic collaborations, mentorship and knowledge sharing can significantly improve the quality and visibility of research outputs while reducing unnecessary costs.
Calling for greater commitment to scholarly productivity, Professor Oguntunde urged academics to work both harder and smarter in order to enhance their personal profiles, strengthen the University’s reputation and contribute meaningfully to national development through research-driven solutions.
Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences, Professor Omotola Dada, described the clinic as a deliberate capacity-building initiative designed to equip scholars with the skills required to thrive in an increasingly competitive global research environment.
She emphasized that multidisciplinary collaboration remains one of the most effective approaches to addressing contemporary scientific and societal challenges.
“Collaboration of this nature allows researchers to harness the strengths of different disciplines. The world is increasingly looking for integrated solutions to complex problems, and multidisciplinary research provides that opportunity,” she said.
Professor Dada noted that beyond publication and funding opportunities, the clinic was conceived to cultivate a culture of teamwork, innovation and excellence among researchers within and beyond the University community.
Speaking on the value of collaborative research, the Head of the Department of Biological Sciences, Dr. Taiwo Crossby Omotoriogun, observed that the collective strength of researchers working together far outweighs the efforts of individuals operating alone.
“The beauty of research lies in complementing one another’s strengths. The gains of teamwork and shared expertise are far greater than those of the lone ranger approach,” he remarked.
Also speaking, the programme coordinator, Dr. Olayinka Osuolale, highlighted the enormous opportunities embedded in research matchmaking and collaborative networks.
According to him, strategic partnerships enable researchers to leverage diverse expertise, broaden the scope of inquiry and ultimately produce stronger and more impactful research outcomes.
“Limitless opportunities abound when researchers connect with one another. Collaboration helps to generate better ideas, attract funding and produce research that can make meaningful contributions to society,” he said.
The clinic culminated in networking sessions and practical engagements that enabled participants to identify potential collaborators from within and other fields, refine research concepts and explore pathways to attracting competitive grants and publishing in high-impact journals.
For many participants, like Dr Olugbenga Onile and Williams Olufunmi, the event was more than a workshop, it was a launchpad for future discoveries, groundbreaking partnerships and innovative solutions.
They noted that as universities worldwide race to unlock solutions to pressing global issues, Elizade University is demonstrating that the future of impactful research lies not in working alone, but in working together to build together.
The programme further reinforces Elizade University’s growing reputation as a centre of academic excellence, innovation and cutting-edge research, committed to producing knowledge that not only advances scholarship but also addresses real-world challenges.
