Igbinedion University Okada, located in Edo State, has been awarded a prestigious grant from the European Union aimed at enhancing sustainable plastic waste and recycling management practices. The project, known as Sustainable Plastic Waste and Recycling Management (SWARM), is a three-year initiative valued at €800,000 (approximately ₦1.24 billion).
The announcement was made by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lawrence Ezemonye, during a ceremony to present the partnership agreement on Wednesday in Okada. As a well-known advocate for environmental preservation, Ezemonye emphasized that this project is a significant stride toward improving waste management strategies in Nigeria and South Africa.
“The grant, coupled with our international collaborations, is essential for addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste in Nigeria,” Ezemonye stated.
He elaborated on the multifaceted scope of the SWARM project, which focuses on enhancing training in solid waste management, promoting recycling efforts, and enabling the recovery of valuable resources.
Ezemonye further noted that the initiative would equip both staff and students at the university with vital skills and knowledge necessary for implementing innovative and sustainable technologies in the realm of plastic waste management. He asserted, “The project will enhance solid waste management training, foster recycling and resource recovery, and facilitate technology transfer through international collaboration.”
Through its comprehensive approach, the SWARM initiative aspires to create a replicable model for effective environmental stewardship. This endeavor not only aims to mitigate the challenges posed by plastic waste but also significantly contributes to the overarching global sustainability agenda, as highlighted by Ezemonye.
“With a comprehensive approach across multiple work packages, SWARM aspires to create a replicable model for environmental stewardship, thereby contributing significantly to the global sustainability agenda,” he explained.
This development marks a promising step for the university and its partners, underscoring the importance of collaboration in tackling environmental challenges and fostering sustainable practices in waste management.
