The maiden edition of The Nexus (Al-Hikmah University Journal of Science and Humanities) was unveiled at a colourful session at the council chamber (Adeta Campus, Ilorin) on Friday, May 13, 2022 (Shawwal 12, 1443 AH).
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Noah Yusuf, fspsp stated in his welcome address that the significance of journals in academic life goes beyond providing a means of communication. He said that journal articles are the ultimate output of most research as a scholar’s performance and productivity are examined largely on the number of publications, where they appear and the impact factor of such journals. The impact factor (a measure of the citations to a particular journal) is frequently seen as a means of determining the importance of a journal. It is often used (and misused) by authors and academia to decide where to publish as well as how to rank the importance of publications. He reiterated that Journals have become deeply embedded in academic infrastructure because they are central to career paths both in funding and appointment. As a result of the selective and specialised nature of journals, The Nexus will be rolling out two Editions namely Science edition and Humanities edition.
Also, the Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Ganiyu O. Akashoro, laid more emphasis on the peer review process adopted by The Nexus which serves as a quality control mechanism. He stated that peer review means that a board of reviewers, who are experts in the field, review the articles submitted by researchers for relevance, quality, adherence to scientific standards and editorial standards of the journal before the articles can be accepted for publication. He explained that the peer review is done blind (i.e. without the reviewer knowing who the author is) to eliminate bias. He added that the peer review process is usually organised by the Managing Editor, Dr. Quadri O. Nurudeen.
The Dean, Postgraduate School, Prof. Adesina O. Y. Raji, who doubles as the Associate Editor-in-Chief implored all staff of the University to send in quality articles to The Nexus for consideration for publications. In his speech, he said it is pertinent for all staff to know that publication is one of the major requirements for global recognition and promotion. Hence, the need for them to key into its objectives. Furthermore, another editorial board member, Prof. Taofik A. Alabi appreciated the University management for the support in making the project a huge success.
The Managing Editor, Dr. Quadri O. Nurudeen appreciated the University management for the encouragement towards the publication of the maiden edition. He added that being a maiden edition, and taking into consideration all observations, comments and constructive criticisms of the day, he assured everyone present of his belief that the next edition promises to feature even greater content.
Also present at the unveiling programme was the Registrar, Bursar, Ag. University Librarian, Deans, Directors and Heads of Departments.
