The Vice-Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt, Owunari A. Georgewill, on behalf of the Senate, staff, and students of the institution, has officially invited members of the academic community and the general public to attend the Two Hundred and Eight (208th) Inaugural Lecture of the university.
Inaugural lectures are important academic traditions in universities where newly appointed professors publicly present their research achievements, academic journey, and contributions to knowledge within their field of specialization. These lectures serve as an opportunity for professors to share insights from years of research, teaching, and professional experience.
At University of Port Harcourt, inaugural lectures are regarded as prestigious academic events that highlight the intellectual contributions of the institution’s scholars and promote knowledge exchange within the university community and beyond.
Topic of the Lecture
The 208th inaugural lecture will focus on the topic: “The Tonic for Emerging Sustainable Technologies.” The lecture will explore the strategies, innovations, and technological advancements required to develop sustainable technologies capable of addressing modern industrial and environmental challenges.
The theme is expected to provide insights into how engineering and technological systems can be improved to support sustainable development, enhance efficiency, and solve critical problems affecting industries and the environment.
Guest Lecturer
The inaugural lecture will be delivered by Tobinson Alasin Briggs, a Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at University of Port Harcourt.
Professor Briggs is an accomplished academic and engineering professional with extensive experience in research and technological innovation.
He obtained both his Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng) and Master of Engineering (M.Eng) degrees from the University of Port Harcourt. He also earned a Postgraduate Certificate from Newcastle University and later obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
In addition to his academic achievements, Professor Briggs is a member of several professional engineering organizations, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE), the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (MIISE).
Date, Time, and Venue
The inaugural lecture is scheduled to take place as follows:
- Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM prompt
- Venue: Central Bank of Nigeria Hall, University Park, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Guests and participants are advised to arrive and be seated by 2:30 PM ahead of the commencement of the lecture.
Significance of the Lecture
The 208th inaugural lecture is expected to attract academics, researchers, students, industry professionals, and members of the public who are interested in the advancement of sustainable technologies and engineering innovations.
Through the lecture, Professor Briggs will share his research findings and professional insights on how modern technological systems can be designed to ensure sustainability, improve industrial productivity, and promote long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Such academic engagements also provide a platform for intellectual discussions that can influence future research directions, technological development, and policy formulation.
Members of the university community and the general public are therefore encouraged to attend and participate in this important academic event organized by University of Port Harcourt.