Professor of Genetics and Biotechnology and Director of Academic Planning at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Hannah Edim Etta, has delivered the University's 12th Inaugural Lecture, drawing a compelling connection between the molecular structure of DNA and the social bonds that sustain a cohesive and resilient society.
The lecture, delivered on Thursday, August 27, 2026, was titled “Links, Linkages and the Missing Link: From DNA Backbones to Social Cohesion.” It explored the significance of connections and interdependence in both biological systems and human society.
Drawing from the structure of the DNA backbone, Prof. Etta explained how the links between biological components create stability and continuity, noting that similar linkages among individuals, institutions, values and social structures are essential to the stability and resilience of society.
She examined key concepts in genetics and biotechnology, including heredity, mutation, adaptation and genetic diversity, and demonstrated how biological processes could offer useful perspectives on continuity, change and societal development.
Prof. Etta also highlighted the transformative potential of biotechnology in addressing critical societal challenges, particularly in agriculture, food security, healthcare and economic development. She called for greater accessibility to scientific knowledge and biotechnology, identifying the bioeconomy as an important avenue for harnessing science and technology for inclusive and sustainable development.
A central message of the lecture was that the strength of any system depends on the integrity of the links that hold its components together. Prof. Etta therefore stressed the need to strengthen social relationships, institutions and shared values as essential elements for building a resilient society.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UNICROSS, Prof. Francisca Bassey, described Prof. Etta as one of her dedicated students who had distinguished herself through diligence, commitment and professional excellence.
Prof. Bassey welcomed members of the University Governing Council, academics, university management, staff, students and invited guests, and commended the inaugural lecturer for her scholarly contributions. She encouraged members of the audience to engage meaningfully with the lecture.
Presenting the citation, Prof. (Mrs.) Robito S. Ekanem of the Department of Guidance and Counselling UNICROSS, highlighted Prof. Etta’s distinguished academic and professional career, including her service as Director of Academic Planning at UNICROSS.
The lecture provided an interdisciplinary perspective linking genetics and biotechnology with social relationships and sustainable development, demonstrating how scientific knowledge can offer insights into some of the challenges confronting society.
The successful delivery of the 12th Inaugural Lecture also underscored the renewed commitment of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, to reviving and strengthening the culture of inaugural lectures at UNICROSS. Since assuming office last year, Prof. Bassey has encouraged and supported the presentation of inaugural lectures as an important platform for showcasing the intellectual contributions of the University’s scholars and promoting knowledge exchange.
Her commitment to the revival of the tradition is further reflected in the successful delivery of the 12th Inaugural Lecture, providing an avenue for members of the University community and the wider public to engage with cutting-edge scholarship and benefit from the expertise of its professors and senior academics.
The event concluded with a reception attended by members of the university management, academics, invited guests, family members, friends and members of the university community.
- UNICROSS Media Team
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