Nigerian-British don gets British varsity award

Dr Alim Abubakre, a Nigerian-British academic and researcher, has been awarded the Inspirational Teaching Award by the Sheffield Hallam University, UK.

The award, which is from the institution’s College of Business, Technology and Engineering, was signed by Prof. Conor Moss, Dean of the School and Joel Gray, an Associate Dean.

Abubakre is a Senior Lecturer in International Business at Sheffield Business School, one of the world top 60 ranking with an acceptance rate of 85 per cent international students.

Moss said that the award to Abubakre was in recognition of his contribution to student success, adding that it is given only to outstanding staff.

“It’s important to recognise our staff who contribute to student success; the Inspirational Teaching Awards are one of the ways that we do that and they mean a lot to staff.

“(This is) because they are nominated by the students in recognition of excellent teaching and learning.

“Alim’s dynamic use of active learning engages students through interactive discussions and problem-solving, drawing on his real-world experience in executive education and international project management.”

He said that Abubakre has contributed to the University’s mantra of applied knowledge and encouraged self-reflection and continuous improvement.

He added that his positive classroom environment nurtures a culture of inclusivity, respect, and intellectual collaboration, inspiring students and fostering a sense of community.

Moss quotes the student as saying “Alim is always energetic and inspiring to learn from. He has countless real-world examples that relate to class content which he tells with a lot of passion.

“He is extremely helpful when giving feedback and he is always happy to explain topics over and over until we understand them.

“His belief in all of us as students creates a judgement free class environment where we can ask for help and answer questions without embarrassment.”

Moss said that it was the pride of the college that students have recognised Alim’s contribution through this nomination for the award.

Abubakre was born into the family of Prof. Razaq Abubakre of Iwo, Osun.

His quest for training global leaders began as far back as 2010 when he founded These Young Minds in the UK; Their first client was Microsoft.

Abubakre is on the advisory board of the London Business School Africa Club and is the non-executive chair of These Executive Minds.

His research is around Responsibility for the Environment, Society and Governance, focusing on three primary contexts: oil and gas, ethical finance and manufacturing.

In addition, he is interested in Stakeholder theory, Impression management, environmental, social performance and Corporate Social Responsibility.