Africa in the Shadows: Professor Ajienka Challenges the Continent to Awaken from Darkness

In a striking reflection on Africa’s developmental challenges, Professor Joseph Atubokiki Ajienka, the 7th Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, delivered a compelling message centered on a symbolic image of the world at night. With most continents illuminated by the glow of progress, Africa stood out—largely engulfed in darkness.”I used graphic images such as the satellite picture of the world at night to prick their conscience on why Africa is in darkness,” Prof. Ajienka stated, as he addressed a diverse academic audience. The imagery, though scientific, carried a moral and intellectual weight that extended beyond energy insecurity.To Prof. Ajienka, the darkness depicted in the satellite image serves as a metaphor for a deeper set of crises—deficiencies in innovation, creativity, and productivity. It speaks to a continent still groping in the dark, not only in terms of electricity but also in terms of mindset and vision.Recognizing the need for a paradigm shift, Prof. Ajienka took proactive steps to tackle the very issues he identified. “I developed interest on how to change our mindset towards creativity and innovation,” he explained. “I started teaching innovation management and technology transfer to graduate students of the IPS group of industry schools.” Through this academic intervention, he aims to nurture a new generation of thinkers and leaders equipped with the tools to light up Africa’s future through knowledge, critical thinking, and enterprise.The former Vice Chancellor’s approach connects symbolism with scholarship. His deliberate choice to use imagery and education in tandem reflects a strategy rooted in awakening consciousness while empowering minds. For him, lectures are not just a platform for theory, but for cultural and intellectual transformation.Prof. Ajienka’s challenge is as bold as it is clear: Africa must rise from the shadows—not just by fixing infrastructure, but by illuminating minds. The satellite image serves as a wake-up call, but his work in innovation education is the torch he uses to lead the way.It is a reminder that the future of Africa lies in its ability to reimagine itself—not as a dark continent, but as a continent of brilliant ideas, vibrant creativity, and resolute action.