How I’m applying foreign knowledge to tackle flood
Dr. Saidu Idris, a lecturer from Gombe State, is advancing the study of detecting and tackling flood in Nigeria at the Federal University, Kashere. The Geography graduate of Bayero University, Kano, recently bagged a Ph.D in Geography from University of K
What’s the motive for mentoring young ones around you?
My motivation spirit is derived from stories of successful people around the globe. So I strive to impact in the lives of people around me, particularly my students. I always include this in my daily routine which includes early morning Quranic recitation, and going to the university to lecture. At my free time especially during the weekend, I teach children in my neighbourhood religious knowledge.
As a young activist, do you face challenges in achieving your goals?
Yes, I do face challenges. This has to do with poor guidance and counseling to put one on the right track
Secondly, there is lack of suitable academic environment to carry out research and studies. Such atmosphere of not having adequate electricity, poor water supply and poor internet connection has often discouraged my students from pushing further. But this is where I come in, urging them to be innovative by all means.
What research activities have you engaged in since you returned?
Since I returned, I have been pursuing research on flood risk in urban places. In Nigeria, there have been cases of flood even in cities, so we are researching on the causes so we can find a lasting preventive solution.
What are the platforms you are creating to empower others?
I am working now to change the academic research perspectives from class room to field and to enhance flood risk researches using modern tools such as Geographic Information System (GIS) GIS/Remote Sensing and application of drones to study environmental problems like urban areas. flood in
What is your advice to youth, many of whom are still unemployed?
I will always advise youth especially those who are students to always study hard so they can become confident professionals in their fields. This is what has helped the advanced countries, and Nigeria is no exception.