By Our Correspondent
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in collaboration with the Anambra State government and Chambers of Commerce in Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi, have unveiled a partnership aimed at driving innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth in the state and beyond.
The Director of Unizik Business School, Professor Pius Okoye, said in Awka that the partnership seeks to ensure that research outputs from the University are aligned with the needs of the industry, while government policies remain responsive to the realities of businesses across the state.
Themed, ‘Anambra Triple Helix Matrix: University, Industry and Government Alignment’, he described the partnership as a tripartite model, which would foster economic growth by turning research into commercial products, provide students with practical skills, and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world
market needs.
According to Okoye, UNIZIK Business School has, over the years, been in the forefront of championing practical business-oriented models that lay much emphasis on case studies, real output and business incubation.
He said, *This maiden UBS quarterly roundtable is geared towards collaborating with Anambra State government in consummating the mandate of His Excellency, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo towards industrialization of Anambra State by sensitizing industry leaders, Small and Medium Scale Enterprise owners, Artisans and innovators.
“It allows UNIZIK Business School to take innovations out of the lab and into the market; transforming theoretical research into usable technology and commercial products.
“It is believed that this collaborations will enable universities to design curricula based on industry needs, providing students with practical hands-on skills, internships, and mentoring that boost employability.
“The alignment is recognized as crucial for regional economic development, as it fosters an ecosystem where university researchers, entrepreneurs, and established firms share ideas.
“As Anambra advances on this path, the collaboration between Nnamdi Azikiwe
University, the Chambers of Commerce, and the state government offers a clear blueprint
for inclusive economic growth. With sustained commitment and strategic execution, the Triple Helix Matrix will not only drive innovation but also secure long-term prosperity for Anambra people.”
He commended the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Bond Ugochukwu Anyaehie, who, he added , his research capacity and human capital management, serve as catalysts for innovation.
The occasion brought together the academia, industry, and government stakeholders to explore the power of university -industry-government collaboration.
