As part of its institutional policy to nurture intellectual curiosity and foster knowledge production through cutting-edge research, Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria on Thursday, organized a premier expert session aimed at exposing researchers into the world of academic publishing.

The event with the theme “Navigating the Landscape: Exploring Research Publication Platforms and Indicators:” Case Study and Hands on through Search Engine Optimization was attended physically and virtually.

In his presentation, the Director of Training and Placement at Central University of Haryana, India, Prof. (Dr.) Akash Saxena, who served as the guest speaker, highlighted the objectives of the intellectual session to include an engaging discussion about the intricacies of various platforms available for research publication in leading international journals.

Prof. Saxena made a lengthy exploration of some important research indicators such as impact factors, citation metrics and altmetrics, and their significance in the academic world.

Other areas extensively discussed during the session include the application of research publication strategies as well as step-by-step processes on how to leverage Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques to enhance the discoverability of research online.

During an interactive session, the participants both online and offline, used the opportunity to ask questions, shared insights and perspectives on the many items discussed in the paper, especially the role AI tools play in academic writings.

It was therefore cautioned that over-dependence on AI tools, without critical human oversight, can lead to issues such as unintentional plagiarism, loss of individual authorship, and a decline in the quality of research work.

Earlier speaking, the President of MAAUN, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, while commending the thoughtful choice of topic of the lecture, which he described as timely and contemporary, expressed hope that the session would serve as an enlightening journey into the world of research publication.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Franco-British International University, Kaduna, Prof. Abdullahi Sabo, who emphasized the role of research publication in fostering collaboration, career advancement, professional recognition, and increased visibility, noted that it often serves as a requirement for academic promotions within academia.

On his part, the Director, Institute of Africa Higher Education Research and Innovation (IAHERI), Prof. Abubakar Sadiq Haruna lauded the eloquence with which the presentation was delivered as well as the expertise of the presenter on the subject matter.

In his remark, the Registrar, MAAUN Maradi, Dr. Shuaibu Tanko reiterated the significance of the lecture and shared valuable insights into the topic discussed.

In a closing remark, the Vice President Administration, Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar underscored the significance of academic research in facilitating the overall learning process.

The registrar, who echoed the need for institutions to inculcate research culture in order to develop their academic standing, also cautioned against over reliance on AI tools in academic writing.

He thanked all the participants for sparing their time to attend the meeting and for their valuable contribution towards the success of the program.