Covenant University recently hosted the 3rd International Conference on Innovation and Sustainable Development, drawing together a diverse assembly of scholars, industry leaders, and policymakers. The conference, themed, ‘The Future of Work, Resilience, and Sustainability,’ took place at the Covenant University Center for Research, Innovative, and Discovery (CUCRID) and addressed critical transformations shaping the work landscape, amid global challenges.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abiodun H. Adebayo, opened the conference by discussing the realities of the 21st-century workplace. He emphasized the importance of adaptability in an environment increasingly influenced by technology and global disruptions. Adebayo reassured participants that while automation may impact job creation, new opportunities in sustainable sectors would emerge.
Professor Kehinde A. Adetiloye, the Chairperson, Local Organizing Committee, highlighted the urgent need for innovation in light of economic instability and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He advocated a shift from traditional work models to more flexible, results-oriented approaches that prioritize productivity over mere presence.
Adetiloye stressed the significance of mental health and employee well-being, calling for resilience and visionary leadership from both the government and the business sector.
The Dean of the College of Management and Social Sciences, Professor Rowland Worlu, expressed gratitude to attendees and speakers, noting the conference’s role as a platform to discuss vital issues, such as artificial intelligence in the workplace and sustainable practices. He emphasized the need for collaboration and adaptability to drive forward-thinking policies.
The first keynote address was delivered by Mr. Olumide Ajomale, CEO of Facilitation and Training Services Limited; a Chartered Accountant and expert in Learning and Development, who discussed, ‘Evolving Horizons & Changing Paradigms: Shaping The Future Of Work For Economic Resilience.’
He engaged the audience with interactive questions, prompting reflections on personal experiences and the relevance of current job roles in the future. Ajomale outlined several megatrends influencing the workforce, including technological advancements, demographic shifts, and global economic uncertainties, while stressing the importance of core skills such as critical thinking and adaptability, alongside tech-savvy skills and human-centered skills like emotional intelligence.
To navigate future uncertainties, he proposed strategies for building economic resilience, including diversification, risk management, innovation, and collaboration.
Dr. Akin Akinpelu, the second keynote speaker and CEO of Erudio Hub, presented on the topic, ‘Work 2030: Navigating the Future Toward Economic Sustainability and Inclusive Prosperity Your Winning TOOLKIT.’ He highlighted how technological advancements and demographic changes are reshaping the labor market, urging the need for ongoing training and vocational initiatives.
Dr. Akinpelu emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable practices and fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems to promote job creation.
In his remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olujide Adekeye, praised the conference's success and the impactful contributions of the keynote speakers. He urged participants to act on what they had learned and to strive for continuous development.
The Registrar, Mrs. Regina Tobi-David, encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge gained from the conference and to engage in post-conference programs to make their insights a reality.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in discussions on topics, ranging from economic circularity to socio-economic resilience, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and society.
As the conference concluded, attendees left inspired and equipped with strategies to navigate the evolving work environment. The event underscored Covenant University’s commitment to driving positive change and fostering a sustainable future for both the people and the planet.
