By Abubakar Umar Gbs
One of the primary challenges students face is the lack of institutional email addresses provided by universities. This seemingly minor oversight has far-reaching consequences, particularly in academic publishing. Platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate have become indispensable for scholars worldwide, providing a space to share and access valuable research. However, many Nigerian students are excluded from this global academic dialogue due to the absence of institute-issued email addresses.
In an era where collaboration and knowledge exchange transcend geographical boundaries, the inability to access such platforms places Nigerian students at a significant disadvantage. The academic community is a vast network where ideas are exchanged, collaborations are forged, and research is disseminated. By not providing students with the necessary tools to participate in this global discourse, we are inadvertently stifling their academic growth and limiting the potential impact of Nigerian research on the international stage.
Institute-issued email addresses are not merely a formality but a gateway to a wealth of academic resources. These email addresses authenticate the identity of students, ensuring the credibility of their work on platforms that demand institutional affiliation. Moreover, they foster a sense of pride and belonging among students as they become official representatives of their institutions on the global academic stage.
I urge Nigerian universities to recognise the significance of this issue and take proactive measures to address it. By issuing academic email addresses to students, we empower them to contribute meaningfully to the global academic community. This simple yet impactful step will bridge the gap between Nigerian students and the wealth of opportunities platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate offer.
In conclusion, providing institute-issued email addresses to students is not just a matter of convenience but a crucial step towards fostering a culture of academic excellence and global collaboration. By highlighting this issue, we can collectively work towards creating an environment where Nigerian students can fully realise their academic potential and make meaningful contributions to the global research landscape.
Abubakar Umar Gbs wrote via abubakargbs@gmail.com.