By Oluremi Modupe
In a strategic move to strengthen operational efficiency and align with national development goals, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Ondo State Coordinating Office has organized a one-day capacity building workshop for its staff at the Federal Secretariat Complex, Akure.
The intensive training, held recently, focused on enhancing staff productivity, improving service delivery, and reinforcing the council’s performance management framework in line with its knowledge-sharing mandate.
Delivering the welcome address, the Ondo State Coordinator, Mrs. Tejumola Folasade A., underscored the importance of continuous professional development as a cornerstone for achieving the council’s strategic objectives. She introduced the guest facilitator, Mr. Isaac Adedugba, a retired senior officer of the council and respected senior citizen, commending his wealth of experience and commitment to institutional growth.
Mr. Adedugba, in his opening remarks, commended the state office for its proactive initiative. He clarified that the RMRDC “is not a core research institute but a research council that builds prototypes and models for investors, providing technical support to promote investment in local raw materials.”
He defined capacity building as “the ability to rebuild, rescale, and step up one’s skills to remain relevant,” emphasizing its direct impact on individual and organizational performance.
The workshop covered eight key areas of capacity development, including strengthening abilities, process improvement, resource development, self-reliance training, mentorship and coaching, training and education, organizational development, and policy advocacy.
Mr. Adedugba also lauded the leadership of the Director-General, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, for introducing innovative reforms such as the Africa Raw Materials Summit and securing enhanced presidential recognition for the Council.
He highlighted the dual benefits of capacity building, boosting individual competence and organizational sustainability. For individuals, it ensures skill development, career progression, higher morale, and adaptability to new technologies. For organizations, it drives productivity, innovation, resource management, and succession planning.
During an interactive session, staff sought clarifications on their roles and the Council’s functions. Responding to a question from Mr. Ale Julius, the facilitator reiterated that RMRDC’s focus is on “remodelling and providing technical support rather than conducting conventional laboratory-based research.”
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Tejumola expressed gratitude to the facilitator, describing the session as “a vital step toward improving our operational performance.” She added, “We hope to have more of such trainings because, like Oliver Twist, we will always ask for more.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Oluremi, who, on behalf of the coordinator and staff, appreciated the facilitator for sharing his expertise. “Your insights have provided our team with valuable tools to enhance productivity and service delivery,” he said.







