The Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) is advancing its Zero Waste Initiative under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Akinyemi Olufemi Ogunkeyede, Acting Director of the Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources. With enthusiastic support from the Vice-Chancellor and strategic collaboration with the (CODAF), the initiative is set to revolutionize waste management practices, linking the university (“the gown”) with the local community (“the town”) in a unified effort to achieve zero waste.
Dr. Ogunkeyede, a leading figure in environmental science, is spearheading this project, which aims to eliminate waste through reduction, reuse, and recycling, thereby creating a circular economy where resources are efficiently utilized. “Our objective is to make both FUPRE and its surrounding community examples of sustainable waste management,” Dr. Ogunkeyede remarked.
The initiative has gained additional momentum from a recent commitment by FUPRE’s Vice-Chancellor, who announced the establishment of a postgraduate program dedicated to Zero Waste. “The Vice-Chancellor’s support is crucial in equipping the next generation of waste management experts,” Dr. Ogunkeyede stated. “The program will provide advanced training to implement zero waste practices effectively across the community.”
A critical component of this initiative is FUPRE’s partnership with CODAF, a reputable organization dedicated to sustainable development and environmental conservation. CODAF brings expertise in community engagement and sustainable practices, providing essential support for the initiative’s outreach efforts. “Our collaboration with CODAF will help strengthen our community-based activities, including waste audits, sensitization campaigns, and educational programs,” Dr. Ogunkeyede explained. “Together, we are fostering a zero waste culture both on campus and beyond.”
This collaborative effort promises significant benefits for both FUPRE and the local community. By reducing waste management costs, minimizing environmental pollution, and promoting sustainable development, the Zero Waste Initiative will also create new job opportunities in recycling and waste management sectors.
The Campus Zero Waste Project, a key element of this partnership, seeks to transform FUPRE into a model of zero waste management. “We are organizing various activities, from training sessions to awareness campaigns, with CODAF’s support, to ensure the success of the project,” Dr. Ogunkeyede added. “This partnership is vital to achieving our vision of a plastic pollution-free environment.”
With the Vice-Chancellor’s endorsement and the partnership with CODAF, Dr. Ogunkeyede’s leadership is set to drive the Zero Waste Initiative forward, creating a sustainable future for both the university and the local community.
