AIAE Associate Fellows Retreat and Conference

The theme of the 2009 conference/retreat centered on Project Leading Edge, AIAE 5-year Strategic Plan (2009-2013), and how to turn the project from blueprint to reality. This conference/retreat took place on Friday, the 20th of February 2009 at Bridge Waters Hotel, Garden Avenue, Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria.At the retreat there were about a 110 participants present.

Events were kicked off with a presentation by Prof. Eboh, the Executive Director of AIAE, on “Project Leading Edge” with emphasis on the context and content of the strategic plan. In his presentation Prof. Eboh noted further that the retreat was a very important annual event for the Institute providing time and opportunity for stock-taking, networking, socializing, and self-assessment of the Institute. He also noted that he is highly encouraged by the support and feedback from fellows. He then went on to present the strategic plan and the role it would play in driving the institute forward over the next 5 years.

Dr. Ifediora Amobi, a special adviser to the Vice President and Associate Fellow of the institute made a presentation on Techniques for Professional Development. Dr. Amobi was delighted for the opportunity to reunite with colleagues and associates. In his presentation he emphasised that continuous learning is the key attitude to have towards professional development.

Another presentation was made by Dr. Kevin Urama, Executive Director ofthe African Technology Policy Studies (ATPS). He spoke on the Potentials and Opportunities for Collaboration/Partnership. In his presentation, he offered explanations on what ATPS is, what it does, how it does its work, where it works, and its achievements so far. Finally, he offered mutual partnership goals and possibilities for both ATPS and AIAE. One of the key presentations was entitled Project Leading Edge: From Blueprint to Reality. It was presented by Dr. Osita Ogbu. His presentation focused on planning essentials and the AIAE Strategic Plan. He made a critique of the Plan and made suggestions on how to make the transition from vision to reality.

Possibly the highlight of the retreat was a presentation by the Governor of the Central Bank, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, CFR. Prof. Soludo's speech was entitled: Refreshing AIAE Vision Refreshed. In it he encouraged participants to be conscious of the challenges we face today. He also reiterated the core beliefs and the guiding principles of AIAE, and strongly encouraged all and sundry to have the courage to do difficult things as that is a sure way to success.

The retreat was not without lighter touches as there was a live band to provide soothing melodies as well as an entertaining Drama presentation. Events were rounded off with a discussion session in which participants had the opportunity to make their comments and contributions on the Strategic Plan and other related issues.