The focus of Dr. Olarotimi Ogungbemi’s research has shifted from media representation of national security issues, particularly Boko Haram terrorism, to the broader realm of global challenges like climate change and environmental justice. His upbringing in the Niger Delta, a region heavily impacted by ecological damage due to oil exploration, has deeply influenced his interest in environmental advocacy. Growing up amidst polluted rivers, degraded mangrove forests, and pervasive air pollution from gas flares, he developed a strong sense of responsibility towards environmental preservation and social justice.
His research aims to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public perception of environmental issues, advocating for fair and sustainable environmental policies. Dr. Ogungbemi stresses the importance of environmental education not only in imparting knowledge but also in instilling a mindset of stewardship and responsibility towards the environment. He believes that by incorporating ecological knowledge into public education systems, societies can better equip individuals to tackle environmental challenges and understand their societal and economic implications.
Regarding collaborative research with African scholars, Dr. Ogungbemi emphasizes its critical role in addressing environmental challenges on the continent. He highlights the value of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into research and policy formation, fostering a more holistic and culturally relevant approach to environmental issues. By collaborating with African scholars, he aims to amplify the voices of local communities and contribute to more sustainable environmental policies and initiatives.
Drawing on his experiences in the Niger Delta, Dr. Ogungbemi plans to apply insights gained from studying environmental issues to address similar challenges in the United States. He advocates for promoting ecological literacy and environmental stewardship across all levels of education, incorporating ecological principles into curricula, and engaging communities in research and advocacy efforts. Through collaborative partnerships and community-based research, he seeks to broaden access to environmental justice programs and enhance understanding of environmental issues in both local and global contexts.
In comparing climate change discourses and environmental policies between the United States and African contexts, Dr. Ogungbemi acknowledges similarities in recognizing the need for stewardship and literacy but highlights differences in socio-economic, political, and cultural circumstances. While both regions face climate change challenges, African countries often confront more immediate and direct repercussions, necessitating different approaches to policy formulation and implementation. Indigenous knowledge and customs also play a significant role in African environmental policies, reflecting a more holistic and community-centered approach to environmental management.
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
