By Chioma Sunny-Adikwu, FUTO CE-sPESS Communication Officer
The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standards (CE-sPESS) at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), recently sponsored a delegation of seven undergraduate students and a faculty member, to participate in a 5-day training workshop on Sustainable Public Procurement at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
The Centre disclosed that the exchange programme was part of its initiative to develop capacity in sustainable procurement, environmental, and social standards in a fast-changing world.
Leader of the delegation and CE-sPESS faculty member, Dr. Martin C. Iwuji, noted that the workshop was attended by participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Gambia, featuring experienced facilitators who handled topics across various areas of public procurement.
According to him, the breakout sessions, discussions, and presentations provided a platform for the delegation to interact with practitioners in the field, drawing meaningful lessons and gaining valuable insights into sustainable public procurement.
“The training highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into procurement practices, with key takeaways including:
Procurement accounts for 50-70% of government expenditure, making it a powerful tool for promoting sustainability.
Integrating sustainability into procurement may seem costly at first, but it offers long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits.
The concept of the “handshake in procurement” highlights the need for collaborative relationships between buyers and suppliers.
Decarbonization is essential in reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with procurement activities.
Local content participation should be prioritised, with at least 50% of materials and services sourced locally to support national development,” he added.
The students’ perspectives on their experience at the training were enlightening, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate. According to Hephzibah David, the experience significantly broadened her understanding of the intersection between sustainability and procurement. “I now see procurement as a strategic function that sustainability principles must guide”, she noted.
Another delegate, Harcourt Progress Chimchetam, was able to interact and work with professionals from different countries. “It was an avenue to network and learn from each other,” she stated.
In his words, Oluikpe-Iheozor Joseph Chidiebere, a student delegate, noted that the 5-day workshop at GIMPA has given participants the foundation to contribute to the global mission of promoting sustainable public procurement. “Sustainable public procurement is no longer optional; it is essential. In a world faced with climate change, social inequality, and resource depletion, procurement professionals must make decisions that are environmentally sound, socially inclusive, and economically viable,” he said.
Dr. Iwuji, on behalf of the FUTO CE-sPESS delegation to GIMPA, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor of FUTO, Prof. Nnenna Oti, and the Centre Leader, Engr. Prof. Gloria A. Chukwudebe, the World Bank, and the NUC for the opportunity to gain this exposure and knowledge. “The training has empowered the next generation of sustainability leaders with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in their communities and future careers. As we continue to promote sustainable development, we look forward to seeing the impact of this training on our students and the broader community”, he concluded.
