The Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University (KWASU), Professor Shaykh-Luqman Jimoh, has called on African governments, academia, civil society and the private sector to work together in shaping a future where the continent’s innovation drives global progress.
He made the call on Tuesday at the opening of the 9th U6+ International Conference at the University of The Gambia.
Professor Jimoh noted that Africa had made significant strides in education, technology, and culture, highlighting that young thinkers, entrepreneurs, and scientists were already contributing to global solutions in agriculture, renewable energy, and the arts.
However, he warned that poverty, inequality, weak infrastructure, climate change and political instability continue to hinder development. He also stressed the need to tackle corruption and improve governance, urging leaders to give young people a central role in decision-making.
“The African diaspora must also be embraced as partners in progress,” he added.
The conference, themed “Celebrating Achievements, Addressing Challenges, and Envisioning Brighter Futures for Africa”, brought together delegates from member universities of the U6+ Consortium. It will run until Thursday, October 2.
