RSU Inaugural Lecture Highlights Shift to Digital Knowledge

 

                                             

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RSU Inaugural Lecture Highlights Shift to Digital Knowledge

By Destiny Tamunoala Emmanuel 

Port Harcourt—The Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, on Wednesday hosted its 129th inaugural lecture, with a strong call for the transformation of library and information services from traditional print formats to digital systems in line with the realities of a knowledge-driven global economy.

The lecture, titled “From Print to Pixel: Digitalizing Library and Information Services in a Knowledge-Based Economy,” was delivered by Professor Jennifer Ngozi Igwela, a Professor of Library and Information Science, at the Dr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike Senate Building.

In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Isaac Zeb-Obipi, welcomed an array of dignitaries, academics, and stakeholders, noting that the world has decisively transitioned into a digital era defined by a digital economy and digital knowledge systems. He challenged the academic community to reflect on how such transformation has reshaped libraries and information services, setting the tone for the lecture.

Professor Igwela, in her presentation, traced the evolution of knowledge storage and dissemination from print to digital formats, explaining that while print represents centuries of tangible recorded knowledge, the “pixel” symbolizes the limitless possibilities of digital information—accessible anytime and anywhere. She emphasized that in a knowledge-based economy, information is not just power but a key economic asset driving innovation, research, and development.

Highlighting the limitations of traditional print-centric libraries, the lecturer noted that such systems are constrained by space, time, and accessibility, often requiring physical presence and manual processes that slow research. “One article could take a whole day to retrieve,” she remarked, stressing the inefficiencies of manual cataloguing and restricted access.

She identified technological advancement, exponential growth of information, evolving user expectations, and economic considerations as major drivers pushing libraries toward digital transformation. According to her, modern users demand instant, remote access to information, making digital systems indispensable.

Professor Igwela further explored emerging technologies shaping library services, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and augmented reality. She explained that AI-powered tools can enhance information retrieval and user support, while blockchain technology ensures transparency, protects intellectual property, and authenticates digital content.

On the role of librarians, she stressed the need for continuous training to equip professionals with digital competencies, noting that modern librarians must function as data managers, digital service providers, and user-experience experts. “Equipment without trained personnel is meaningless,” she cautioned.

Addressing the digital divide, the lecturer acknowledged that limited access to internet services and devices remains a major challenge, particularly in developing societies. However, she described well-equipped digital libraries as “lifelines” capable of bridging educational gaps, reducing social vices, and expanding access to knowledge beyond the academic community.

She also underscored the benefits of digitalization, including global collaboration, improved research access through open resources, and long-term preservation of knowledge. Nonetheless, she noted that the transition requires sustained government investment, infrastructure development, and proactive policy implementation.

Concluding her lecture, Professor Igwela declared that the shift from print to digital systems is inevitable and urged institutions to embrace forward-thinking leadership. “It is time to have a digital vice-chancellor and a digital librarian,” she said, emphasizing that information remains central to economic growth and national development.

In his closing remarks, Professor Zeb-Obipi commended the lecturer for her depth of insight and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to aligning with global digital trends. He noted that the institution would continue to strengthen its digital infrastructure and academic resources to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving knowledge economy. He further urged policymakers and educational stakeholders to prioritize investment in library development, stressing that “no nation can rise above the quality of its knowledge systems.”

Delivering the vote of thanks, Chairman of the University Lectures Committee, Patrick Nwinyokpugi, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, the inaugural lecturer, and distinguished guests for their contributions to the success of the event. He described the lecture as timely and impactful, noting that it had provided practical direction for advancing academic excellence through digital innovation.

A major highlight of the event was the formal decoration of Professor Igwela as the 129th inaugural lecturer of the university.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, and the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Saakpenwa, Prince Chinedu Mmom, alongside top government officials, academics, and stakeholders.

Speaking with journalists after the lecture, Professor Igwela reiterated that libraries remain the backbone of academic excellence and national development. “Readers are leaders,” she said, calling on government at all levels to establish and equip libraries in primary schools, secondary schools, and local government areas.

She emphasized that digitalization does not eliminate traditional books but complements them, ensuring access to fast and up-to-date information in a globalized world. She also advocated early exposure to reading culture, noting that it enhances critical thinking and informed decision-making.

On infrastructure challenges, particularly electricity, she acknowledged existing limitations but maintained that solutions are achievable with proper prioritization. “Nigeria has the resources; it is about channeling them to the right places,” she stated.

The lecture reinforced the urgent need for a strategic shift in Nigeria’s education sector, positioning libraries as critical drivers of a knowledge-based economy and sustainable national development.