In a landmark effort to strengthen the bridge between academia and industry, the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) School of Postgraduate Studies will host its 2025 Annual International Conference on October 2-3, 2025 at the Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Auditorium, Agbani, Enugu.

Centred on the theme “Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Academia through Research and Development,” the two-day event will convene distinguished scholars, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders from across Nigeria and abroad.

Monsignor Professor Obiora Ike, a renowned ethicist and Professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, will deliver the keynote address. With decades of experience in academia, ethics, and social innovation, Msgr. Prof. Ike is expected to set the tone for the conference with a thought-provoking presentation that underscores the role of research and values in driving sustainable national development.

Other notable lead paper presenters include Professor James Robinson of the University of Chicago, USA, Professor Ambrose Anoruo of Texas A&M University, USA, and Professor Mkpa Agu Mkpa, former Vice-Chancellor of Abia State University.

According to the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Felix Ugwu, the conference is designed to spark dialogue between “the gown and the town”, ensuring that research findings are applied to real-world challenges in healthcare, education, agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

The Chief Host is ESUT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, while the Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Charles Chime, will serve as Host.

This year’s gathering will provide a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative partnerships, and networking—geared towards innovation, policy development, and sustainable growth. Attendance is open to scholars, industry players, students, and stakeholders.