BIONAS, ABU sign MoU to train students on renewable energy technology
The Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Malaysian firm, BIONAS to train students on renewable energy technology transfer to industries.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BIONAS is a UN accredited renewable energy firm working in over 52 countries.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ibrahim Garba at the signing ceremony held at ABU main campus, Samaru, Kaduna State, said that the institution looked forward to the actualisation of the project.
“We look forward to a fruitful collaboration to actualise this noble and hefty goal.
“The renewable energy in ABU had gone so far in terms of engaging foreign interests; ranging from solar energy to bio-fuels.
“This one that came has come at the right time because it is really a very sustainable means of energy transfer.
“It also comes with quit a lot of other inputs of training, business, research and overall solving of our problems in energy and power sector,” he said.
The V-C said that it was extremely necessary for the country to key in so that it would not to be left out in terms of global technological advancement.
Garba described oil and gas sector as “a very sensitive sector that will more and more rely on renewable energy sector.’’
“Just as mentioned, we require ethanol to reduce the tussle in fuel mix; it’s important that when we commence this collaboration, am sure we will go further than Jathropa.
“This is because about a year ago, we are already looking at sugarcane for ethanol and Zaria happens to be in a sugarcane belt,” he said.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, BIONAS Nigeria, Umar Sani-Gambo said that the essence of the collaboration was to transfer technology under the BIONAS brand.
He said that the organisation was planning to develop a Centre for Excellence that would provide a training platform for the industries.
Sani-Gambo appreciated the management of ABU for the warm reception, courage and agreeing to partner for national growth and development.
The CEO said in order to reposition the firm well in Nigeria; it forged a relationship with the Federal Ministry of Environment.
According to him, a national workshop is organised to realise the full potential of Jatropha in the diversification of the economy through the value chain.
Sani-Gambo said that BIONAS had assisted many countries to develop their own bio-fuels to implement their policy without a lot of challenges. (NAN)
