The management of Federal University of Technology Owerri has officially announced the institution’s 38th Convocation Lecture, scheduled to hold as part of activities marking the university’s convocation ceremony.
The prestigious academic event is being hosted under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor, *Prof. (Mrs.) Nnenna N. Oti, JP, RSS, FSSCN*, who has extended a warm invitation to members of the university community, stakeholders in the education sector, students, alumni, researchers, industry leaders, and the general public to participate in the important intellectual gathering.
Theme of the Convocation Lecture
The lecture is themed:
“Nigerian Universities of Technology Must Lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution or Jeopardize the Nation's Future.”
The topic is expected to address the growing importance of science, innovation, technology, digital transformation, and research-driven education in shaping the future of Nigeria’s economy and national development.
The university noted that the lecture will provide an opportunity for intellectual discussions on how Nigerian universities of technology can position themselves strategically in the rapidly evolving world driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, digital systems, data science, renewable energy, biotechnology, and emerging technologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Guest Lecturer
The convocation lecture will be delivered by the Executive Governor of Imo State:
Hope Uzodinma
The governor, who is expected to serve as the keynote speaker, will share insights on the role of technology-based institutions in driving national progress, innovation, entrepreneurship, industrialization, and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.
His participation in the event further highlights the strong relationship between government, education, and technological advancement in the country.
Event Details
The university has announced the following details for the convocation lecture:
Date: Thursday, 4th June, 2026
Time: 12:00 Noon
Venue: Prof. C.O.E. Onwuliri Conference Hall, FUTO
Members of the university community and invited guests are advised to arrive early and be properly seated before the commencement of the programme.
Importance of the Lecture
According to the university management, the convocation lecture is expected to serve as a platform for discussing the future of higher education in Nigeria, especially the responsibilities of technology-driven institutions in national transformation.
The lecture will also examine how universities can contribute to:
- Technological innovation
- Research and development
- Digital economy growth
- Industrial advancement
- Entrepreneurship development
- Youth empowerment
- National competitiveness in global technology spaces
The institution emphasized that universities of technology must play leading roles in preparing graduates with relevant digital, technical, entrepreneurial, and problem-solving skills required in the modern world.
Expected Dignitaries
The event is expected to attract several distinguished personalities from different sectors across the country, including:
- Government officials
- University administrators
- Academic scholars
- Industry experts
- Researchers
- Traditional leaders
- Students and alumni
- Members of the public
The gathering is anticipated to provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and meaningful conversations on innovation and national development.
Lecture Coordination
The Chairman of the University Lecture Series Committee and University Orator, Prof. B. O. Esonu, RAS, FASN, FNSAP, FCASN, will coordinate the event.
The university described the lecture as one of the major highlights of the 38th Convocation Ceremony and encouraged all interested participants to attend and benefit from the discussions and insights that will be shared during the programme.