The Academic Staff Union of Research Institutes (ASURI), NACGRAB Chapter, organised a three-day intensive hands-on training programme on grantsmanship from 13 to 15 April 2026. The programme was designed to equip researchers with practical skills for developing competitive research proposals and attracting funding for research activities.
The training was facilitated by Prof. S. A. Olakojo, Research Professor of Plant Breeding and Applied Genetics at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, Ibadan.
Training Focused on Research Funding Skills
The three-day programme provided participants with an opportunity to learn practical approaches to grantsmanship and improve their understanding of the processes involved in securing research funding.
Through the hands-on sessions, participants were exposed to relevant knowledge and strategies that could help them position their research ideas for potential funding opportunities. The training also provided a platform for researchers to interact with an experienced academic and researcher while gaining insights that could support their professional development.
NACGRAB Director Declares Programme Open
The programme was formally declared open by the Director of NACGRAB, Dr. A. U. Okere.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Okere appreciated Prof. S. A. Olakojo for making time from his busy schedule to share his knowledge and experience with NACGRAB researchers. He described the training as a valuable opportunity for research scientists to strengthen their capacity in grantsmanship.
The Director also commended the leadership of ASURI, NACGRAB Chapter, for identifying grantsmanship as an area of importance and organising the training for its members.
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the programme and actively participate in the sessions so that they could achieve the objectives for which the training was organised.
Participants Commend the Facilitator
At the close of the three-day programme, participants expressed their appreciation to Prof. Olakojo for his mentorship, guidance and willingness to share his experience.
They acknowledged the value of the training and expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge gained to their research activities and funding efforts.
The programme ended on a positive note, with participants encouraged to take practical steps towards developing stronger research proposals and pursuing available funding opportunities.
The training demonstrates ASURI NACGRAB Chapter’s commitment to continuous professional development and to strengthening the capacity of research scientists to contribute more effectively to research and innovation at NACGRAB.
