In his opening remarks at the four (4) day workshop, Mr. Samuel NyarkoAgyapong, the Project Officer of the AAU, said that the workshop aimed at training the next generation of African Researchers in data analysis tools and practices to enhance the transparency, reproducibility and openness of research. According to him, the focus of the workshop was to make participants gain basic understanding and skills in analyzing research data in a reproducible manner.
The VC of Osun State University, Professor LabodePopooola, in his address revealed that the most pressing problem facing the world today is increasing complex approach to research. He said ''exchanging data and other research output amongst researchers could open up new avenues for discoveries, creativity and innovation that might never have been anticipated by the original data generators. Also, access to the data underlying research findings is critical to ensure that these claims can be scrutinized and reproduced for impact''.
''It is no longer news that most African researchers still face difficulties in publishing their research findings. Amongst other factors, these difficulties could be attributed to the inadequacy of, or lack of research quality, poor data, lack of appreciation of the data manipulation process and lack of research integrity. I believe this workshop is poised to addressing some of these important research challenges for improved research quality, integrity and output in the African continent''the VC added.
Participants were drawn from institutions across Africa and the workshop successfully initiated a research model on how African Universities could use 'stata' for analysis on reproduction of research. Participants embarked on an excursion to Osun Groove and Nike Art Gallery and also visited the Main Campus of the University in Osogbo.
The 4-day workshop ended on a happy mood with a luncheon party which was graced by important dignitaries in the state including Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, the executive governor of Osun State ably represented by Dr. Gboyega Oyebade, the Head of Service; Deputy Governor, Mr. Benedict OlugboyegeAlabi who was represented by Mr. T.O. Agunlejika, the Coordinating Director, Office of the Chief of Staff and Protocol. Others are Engr. (Prince) TundePonnle, a member of Council, Osun State University; Mr. TundeOyesiji, the Executive Secretary, Osun State Council for Arts and Culture; Professor KayodeAdekeye, the Lead Facilitator at the Workshop and other eminent personalities. The captivating performance of the Osun State Council forArts and Culture added glamour to the event.
On the University team are; Professor Labo Popoola, the Vice-Chancellor; Professor O.C. Adebooye, DVC (ARIP); Professor J.O. Olaitan, DVC (A&D); Mr. G.A.A. Shittu, Registrar; Mr. BolarinwaFeruke, Bursar; and Mrs. TinuadeAdewale, University Librarian. Also present are, Professor O.A. Gbadamosi, Provost, College of Law and Chairman Committee of Provosts, Deans and Directors (COPDD); Professor B.E. Olorede, Provost, Postgraduate College; Professor A.L. Kehinde, Director of Quality Assurance; Professor A.O. Popoola, Director of Research and Linkages; Dr. M.A. Adeleke, Acting Director of Academic Planning; Professor Anthony Kola-Olusanya, Director of Inter-Campus and Public Affairs (DICPA); Dr. Obiyemi Obiseye, Deputy Director, DICPA; while Mr. A.O. Adeyemi, Mr. A.K. Onibonokuta and Mr. OwolabiAyesanmi represented the Media team of the University.