By Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu.
The Democratisation of Environmental Literacy in Post-Primary Educational Institutions in Nigeria (DELitE)* project, implemented by the Innovation and Advanced Science Research Group (IASRG) of Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, marked a significant milestone on March 27th, 2025. The DELitE Research Subgrant Award Ceremony celebrated a new phase in the strategic implementation of project activities—anchored on shared responsibility, leadership, and the decentralised execution of key tasks.
Rather than focusing solely on funding distribution, the ceremony spotlighted a shift in approach: empowering team members to take ownership of defined project tasks as sub-Principal Investigators (sub-PIs). This structure promotes a more democratic and inclusive execution strategy, aligning directly with the DELitE project’s overarching aim—to democratise environmental literacy through active participation, leadership development, and context-specific innovation.
The subgrant mechanism is intentionally designed to strengthen the project’s operational framework by giving researchers a hands-on role in driving deliverables. By distributing leadership roles across the team, the DELitE initiative ensures that project implementation is not only efficient but also inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in collective ownership. Sub-PIs are now responsible for defined deliverables under structured timelines, applying real-world problem-solving, environmental engagement, and educational outreach strategies to achieve project milestones.
In his welcome address, the Principal Investigator, Professor A. M. Aibinu, emphasised the significance of this approach in fostering leadership, critical thinking, and accountability. He highlighted that taking charge of project components enables researchers to build their academic and professional portfolios while actively contributing to meaningful environmental impact.
The DELitE subgrant model also encourages innovation, peer collaboration, and the internal review of ideas. The five research proposals submitted were subjected to a rigorous double-blind peer review by a panel of experts. All submissions met the performance benchmark, with four proposals selected for immediate implementation. This reflects the high quality of project-aligned ideas being generated within the team.
This innovative approach allows the team to monitor progress and evaluate success using AI-driven tracking tools, ensuring transparency and timely delivery of outputs. The model supports continuous learning while enabling researchers to test practical solutions in real contexts—such as tree planting campaigns, flood management systems through improved drainage and channelisation, and digital inclusion in environmental education through third-generation AI technologies.
Furthermore, the DELitE project prioritises evidence-based documentation, visibility through strategic communication, and accountability in reporting outcomes. The subgrant strategy is not just a tool for distributing work but a conscious effort to cultivate a research ecosystem that is participatory, self-sustaining, and results-oriented.
Ultimately, the DELitE Research Subgrant Initiative represents a paradigm shift towards democratised project implementation. It fosters a sense of ownership among researchers, accelerates the achievement of key goals, and lays the groundwork for a culture of innovation and leadership in environmental literacy. As the eight-week implementation phase begins on April 1st, the team is poised to deliver results that resonate far beyond academia—transforming schools, communities, and policy discourse on environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu is the Chief Executive and Academic Officer,
Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria.
www.summituniversity.edu.ng
The author, is a Professor of Mechatronics Engineering,
Specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Vision, Spiritual Intelligence, Mechatronics System Development, Grantsmanship, and Open & Borderless Learning
www.aibinu.com.ng
+234-802-949-4164
Abiodun.aibinu@summituniversity.edu.ng
maibinu@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abiodun-musa-aibinu-aa744b64/
