National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Chuks Peter, DELTA
The Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) has officially announced the commencement of its Energy Business School in Effurun, Uvwie local government area of Delta State.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of FUPRE, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh disclosed to journalists in a media briefing in Effurun, Delta State that, “The establishment of the FUPRE Energy Business School aims to address this need by equipping aspiring management leaders with the in-depth knowledge and managerial experience required for career advancement in the energy sector.”
“Energy is fundamental to the quality of life on earth and is a key ingredient in all sectors of modern economics,” Rim-Rukeh noted.
He also said, “The program is designed to blend management and energy expertise, and will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of energy industries, technologies, and markets.
“This holistic approach is intended to foster a strategic mindset and enable graduates to thrive in an increasingly globalized environment.”
Rim-Rukeh extended gratitude to the university’s partners for their collaboration. He said, “I congratulate our esteemed partners and Petronet Africa, Entek Integrated Resources Ltd, and Cyphercrescent Limited. Your support is crucial, and we are confident that this partnership will yield significant benefits for all parties involved,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also state the importance of the institution’s commitment to the school’s vision and mission, calling on partners to contribute their best in terms of time and resources as the program begins. “We assure you that FUPRE will give its utmost to achieve the goals of the Energy Business School,” Rim-Rukeh affirmed.
The launch of the Energy Business School marks a milestone for FUPRE and is poised to make substantial contributions to energy development both within Nigeria and globally.
The event took place in the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room and was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from industry partners Petronet Africa, Entek Integrated Resources Ltd, and Cyphercrescent Limited.”
On his part, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Professorial Chair in Oil and Gas Economics and Management at the Institute of Oil and Gas Studies, University of Cape Coast, collaborated with the VC, FUPRE.
The Professor of Petroleum Economics and Policy Research and the Director of Energy Information Division of the Center for Energy Studies, Professor Wumi said, the initiative is led by Dr. Felix and in partnership with Petonex Africa, headed by Sirffer Christian and overseen by Engineer Thank God. The program aims to transform the landscape of petroleum and energy education in West Africa.
He also said, “the Federal University of Petrolum Resources FUPRE Energy Business School, offers two advanced programs in petroleum and energy studies: adding that the programe also offers a doctoral program and a professional master’s program.
“These programs include a comprehensive curriculum featuring ten modules, with seven core subjects and three specialized tracks, designed to equip professionals with the skills necessary to manage oil, gas, and energy industries efficiently and ethically”.
The school emphasizes interactive learning environments where students can engage directly with facilitators.
Professor Iledare who have over twenty-five years of oil and gas experience spanning both practice and research disclosed that, “the primary requirement for students is access to reliable internet service”.
“The school has received 25 applications and admitted 20 students. The inaugural class will commence online on Tuesday, July 29, 2024, at 5 PM.
“Master’s students will undertake cornerstone projects addressing real-world problems in Nigeria’s oil, gas, and power sectors. Students are responsible for defining these problems, developing solutions, and defending their work before a three-member committee.
“Doctoral candidates will complete an additional one year of study after their coursework. They will be required to identify and solve critical issues within the energy and power sectors independently.
“Our doctoral candidates will be tasked with this critical step, ensuring they provide viable solutions.
“The program is set to address Nigeria’s significant energy challenges. With a population of approximately 200 million, Nigeria struggles to maintain even 10,000 megawatts of electricity, often managing only around 5,000 to 6,000 megawatts.
“The school aim is to find solutions to achieve the 200,000 megawatts required for stable electricity supply.
“In addition to energy challenges, the program will tackle the efficient management of oil and gas revenues.
“Nigeria has faced difficulties in managing resources and revenue generated from oil, often leading to financial inefficiensing.
“The program includes comprehensive training on international oil and gas accounting procedures to enhance fiscal responsibility and governance.”
Addressing the issue of financial inefficiency, Prof. Wumi disclosed that, “Governments globally often mismanage funds, especially in petroleum economies where revenue is not primarily derived from taxation. Effective management and fiscal discipline are crucial for sustainable development.
“The FUPRE Energy Business School represents a significant step toward resolving Nigeria’s perennial energy insecurity and financial mismanagement in the oil and gas sector. By fostering a new generation of skilled professionals, the school aims to drive sustainable growth and development in these critical industries.” He added.
