"Research Grants: The Way Forward" - Prof. Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju

 "Research Grants: The Way Forward" - Prof. Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju, an expert insights on crafting winning proposals and securing funding

Professor Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju, a biomedical professor from the University of Technology, Bellville, South Africa, demystified the criteria for crafting a winning research proposal at the faculty lecture titled "Research Grants: The Way Forward." The event, organized by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, took place on Friday, November 11, 2024, at the Faculty auditorium.

Present at the event were the VTH Director, Professor Jeremiah; the Dean of the Faculty, ably represented by the UI-ACUREC Chairman, Professor Oluwayelu; the former Dean, Professor Oyeyemi; and other faculty staff.

In his opening remarks, Professor Oluwayelu emphasized the abundance of research grants but noted that only those who seek them in the right way are successful. "It's my pleasure to have a professor of biomedical science guide us on areas to explore and where opportunities lie in research."

Professor Oguntibeju delivered the topic, expounding on the significance of research in academia and the importance of securing grants to fund research. He defined grants, outlined sources, and provided criteria for crafting a winning research proposal.

"In crafting a proposal, know the type of research and sources of grants available," he advised. "This ensures your proposal is sent to interested parties."

Professor Oguntibeju described grant proposals as documents selling ideas to grant sources, emphasizing problem identification, idea implementation, and need fulfillment.

Guiding the audience on crafting convincing proposals, he stressed the importance of: Project title, Project summary, Project description, Personnel involved, Goals and objectives, Research questions, Sound methodology, Budget and Sustainability.

"Proposals must have clear, focused goals tailored to funders' priorities," he emphasized. "Avoid grammatical errors and align research questions with objectives."

The Dean,  Professor Olufunke Ola-Davies, who joined the event later, commended the lecturer and highlighted challenges facing Nigerian researchers. She encouraged collaboration over competition in securing research grants.

"Failure to secure a grant doesn't mean your proposal is flawed," she said. "Find suitable grants and correct mistakes."

She assured faculty members of upcoming lectures on research writing and ethics.

Professor Ayinmode stressed the importance of apprenticeship in research, while Professor Olopade encouraged consistency and focus in research proposals. He highlighted the immense benefits of grants, including improved salary status, research equipment, and training opportunities.

The event concluded with Professor Oyeyemi presenting gifts to the lecturer, followed by the school and national anthems.