The University of Jos has commenced the 3rd International Conference on Management Science Research (ICMSR 2026), bringing together scholars, researchers, and students from across the globe to explore solutions to contemporary management and governance challenges.
The four-day conference, which began on May 4, is being held at the Faculty of Management Sciences Auditorium, Naraguta Campus in Jos, Plateau State. Activities include a PhD colloquium, paper presentations, and concurrent sessions, with the event expected to conclude on May 7.
The conference is themed “Driving Digital Transformation and Sustainable Governance: Strategies for Inclusive Growth in a Dynamic Global Economy.”
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Dr H Gin Chong highlighted digital transformation as a major structural shift reshaping economies, institutions, and governance systems globally. He noted that while digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and digital platforms offer opportunities for improved productivity and public service delivery, their benefits remain uneven due to disparities in infrastructure, skills, and regulatory frameworks.
He also outlined key challenges, including the widening digital divide, cybersecurity threats, data privacy concerns, and market dominance by large digital platforms, calling for stronger policies, inclusive systems, and international cooperation.
Representing the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Tanko Ishaya, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Peak Charles, emphasized the importance of research in addressing evolving societal issues. He noted that the conference provides a vital platform for scholars to present research findings that can influence policy and contribute to societal development.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Yohanna Jugu, said the conference aims to foster collaboration among scholars to address pressing management and governance challenges, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s economic realities. He added that previous editions of the conference have improved the university’s global visibility and academic ranking.
In her welcome address, the conference organizing chairperson, Professor Teresa Nmadu, disclosed that over 70 research papers have been accepted for presentation, with participants drawn from more than five countries. She noted that the conference also features discussions on digital innovation, sustainability reporting, risk management, and financial inclusion.
Participants, including postgraduate students, described the conference as impactful. A student, Sati Nanpan, said the event has provided valuable insights into digital transformation and its applications across sectors such as agriculture, education, and healthcare. Another participant, Hozong Ayuba, highlighted the importance of learning from international experts on emerging global trends.
A faculty member, Professor Monica Clarkson Gajeri, noted that the conference has attracted speakers from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Uganda, stressing that such engagements help align academic research with global best practices.
The ICMSR 2026 is expected to produce scholarly publications and policy-relevant recommendations that will contribute to advancing digital transformation, governance, and sustainable development both in Nigeria and globally.
