By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The 5th international conference of the Society for Human Ecology in Nigeria (SHEN) was recently held at the University of Jos, bringing together scholars, experts, and stakeholders to discuss sustainable family development and human ecology.
With the theme “Bridging the Gap for Sustainable Family Development,” the conference aimed to address the challenges facing families globally and the need for solutions.
In her opening remarks, the National President of SHEN, Prof. Elizabeth Mngusen Kembe, emphasized the transformations in family structures due to evolving trends, changing patterns, technological advancements, and concerns like food insecurity.
She stressed the importance of public awareness on managing families for sustainable development, highlighting the need for research to tackle these challenges and translate academic insights into practical solutions tailored to the needs of society.
She stated “So much has happened in the family cycle, such as evolving trends and changing family patterns, technological advancement as well as food and insecurity. Thus the need to enlighten the public on how to manage the family for sustainable development.
“Research gaps that must be bridged and consolidated for positive family development. There is a need, therefore, for various research dimensions in academia to be translated to needs, the needs of the society, and the industry.”
During the conference, Resource person, Prof. Kachallom Best highlighted the significance of families as prototypes of society, underscoring the necessity of developing this institution for societal progress. Prof. Andrew Haruna, a key player in SHEN, also emphasized the foundational role of families and the necessity of adopting a holistic approach that addresses both family needs and environmental conservation.
In his paper presentation, Prof. Emmanuel Umoru, the director of the entrepreneurship center, UNIJOS, emphasized the urgency of addressing contemporary challenges such as insecurity and poverty that have contributed to family disintegration.
“Human ecology is now placed in a strategic position to provide measures to address issues that concern sustainable family development and survival.” His remarks highlighted the pivotal role of human ecology in devising strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of societal challenges on family dynamics”. Prof. Umoru emphasized.
Also, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, represented by Prof. Grace Chollom, highlighted the timeliness of the conference theme and urged participants to focus on discussing the evolving dynamics of family life to find solutions.
He stated, “Families are faced with challenges in Nigeria, so I urge participants to have critical discussion, interaction, and brainstorm very well to bring out the way forward for family members and for academics too.”
Apart from family challenges, the conference also addressed broader issues such as environmental degradation and habitat modification. Participants were encouraged to promote sustainability in agricultural practices, education, and awareness.
The University of Jos also inaugurated its TV/Radio Studio within the Mass Communication Department, aimed at providing practical learning opportunities to students. Prof. Ishaya encouraged students to utilize the studio equipment to enhance their skills and knowledge.
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