Ikot Abasi as an industrial Hub in Akwa Ibom State; the Benefits of the Confluence between an Oil and Gas Industrial Park and the Federal University of Technology
By: Destiny Young
3W Alliance Limited has received approval from the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority – OGFZA to establish international industrial parks (in two (2) states each) across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria. The reference model will kick-start at the Liberty Free Trade Zone in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State with an on-site power and water supply, natural gas pipelines, internal connecting roads, rentable warehouses, and residential estates.
The Ikot Abasi industrial park is to be powered by natural gas and would attract lots of medium-scale investors, with massive job opportunities for youths in the country.
Ikot Abasi will become the industrial hub in Akwa Ibom State, the citing of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) in that location was well thought out because of the expected industrial renaissance in the region.
Why a University of Technology is usually cited near an industrial Zone
Universities of Technology are often located near industrial hubs for several strategic reasons:
1. Collaboration and Partnerships: Proximity to industries facilitates collaboration, research partnerships, and knowledge sharing between academia and industry experts.
2. Internship and Job Opportunities: Nearby industries provide students with practical training, internship, and job opportunities, enhancing their employability.
3. Research and Development: Access to industrial facilities and equipment enables researchers to conduct applied research, driving innovation and technological advancements.
4. Talent Pipeline: Industries can tap into the skilled workforce produced by the university, reducing recruitment costs and ensuring a steady supply of qualified professionals.
5. Knowledge Transfer: The university can transfer cutting-edge research and technologies to industries, supporting their growth and competitiveness.
6. Infrastructure Sharing: Industries and universities can share resources, such as laboratories, equipment, and libraries, optimizing costs and resources.
7. Economic Development: The university’s presence can contribute to the regional economy by attracting industries, startups, and investments, fostering economic growth.
By locating near industrial hubs, Universities of Technology can create a synergistic ecosystem that benefits both academia and industry, driving innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.
Image: Illustration ONLY
~ Destiny Young, a technology infrastructure engineer, writes from Uyo
