Research Should Transform Society, Not Just Produce Professors, Dr. Shama Charges Academics at MAAUN Int’l Workshop

University lecturers have been urged to undertake research with the primary aim of solving societal problems and creating lasting impact, rather than pursuing academic promotions or professorial titles.

The Founder and CEO, International Institute of Influencers and Director of International Collaborations Gulf Skill Pioneers, Sultanate of Oman, Dr. Shama Hussain, made the call during her presentation at the International Workshop on Research Methodology, Data Analysis and Publication organised online by Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) on Tuesday.

The event attracted more than 36,000 scholars, researchers and students from over 126 countries.

Dr. Hussain described research as the foundation of innovation and leadership, stressing that its true value lies in the impact it creates.

She urged researchers to produce knowledge that addresses societal challenges, influences policy and improves lives.

She also advocated the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies into research methodology, while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and adherence to ethical standards in scholarly work.

Earlier, the President of MAAUN, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, welcomed participants from across the globe and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting research excellence through international collaboration and capacity-building initiatives.

The workshop also featured a presentation by Dr. Abdul Rahim Ridzuan, Senior Fellow, IBDAAI, Malaysia, on the “General Structure of Manuscripts and Anatomy of a Journal Article”.

He highlighted common challenges facing emerging researchers and shared practical strategies for publishing in high-impact journals.

A third presentation on “Data Analysis” was delivered by Dr. Gulsum Aghayeva of Baku State University, Baku, Azerbaijan but due to time constraint, the slides were shared amongst participants.

The workshop ended with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants engaged the speakers on research methodology, academic publishing and emerging trends in global scholarship.

In his closing remarks, the Vice President (Administration), Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar, commended the speakers for their insightful presentations, describing Dr. Hussain’s lecture as inspiring.

He also appreciated participants for their active engagement and thanked the Founder of MAAUN, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for his unwavering support for research and academic excellence.

Among those in attendance were the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Ibrahim Maigari; Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, Dr. Nura A. Yaro; Vice President, Campus Life, Dr. Hamza Garba.

Others were the Director of the African Institute for Solutions and Development, Dr. Salisu Mohammad; Head of Human Resources, Hajiya Maimunat S. Bello; Head of Career Guidance, Training and Placement, Engr. Bashir Garba; and other principal officers and senior members of the university community.