University of Port Harcourt’s New Ceramics Gas Kiln: A Milestone in Innovation and Sustainability
On February 5, 2025, the Department of Fine Arts and Design at the University of Port Harcourt celebrated a remarkable achievement with the successful test firing of its newly constructed gas kiln. Designed and built by Professor Edem Peters, a distinguished Professor of Ceramics & Design and the current Head of Department, the kiln stands as a testament to creative ingenuity and academic excellence. Measuring 6 feet in length, 5 feet in height, and 4 feet in width, the kiln achieved an impressive 95% efficiency rate during its test firing, igniting a wave of excitement among ceramics students and faculty members alike. The joy on the students’ faces as they retrieved their perfectly fired bisque wares underscored the significance of this development in their academic and artistic journeys.
The University of Port Harcourt takes immense pride in this groundbreaking innovation, as Professor Edem Peters successfully designed and built the gas kiln to enable staff and students of ceramics to elevate their work to new heights. This transition from wood kilns to gas kilns marks a crucial step towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly production of fired bisque wares. The university’s commitment to sustainability, skill development, and artistic excellence in ceramics education continues to set it apart as a leader in Nigeria’s creative landscape.
The introduction of this gas kiln marks a major step forward for ceramics education, production, and sustainability within the university. Unlike traditional wood-fired kilns, which contribute to deforestation and air pollution, this gas kiln offers a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient firing alternative. By reducing reliance on firewood, the kiln helps preserve forests while significantly lowering harmful emissions, contributing to a cleaner and healthier learning environment.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the gas kiln presents immense opportunities for skill development and creative innovation. Students now have access to a modern firing facility that enhances their practical knowledge of kiln operations, ceramic glazing, and high-temperature firing techniques. This hands-on experience is essential for training the next generation of ceramic artists, designers, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to Nigeria’s growing creative economy. With a reliable kiln, students and faculty members can explore new ceramic techniques, materials, and artistic expressions, ensuring that the University of Port Harcourt remains at the forefront of ceramics education in Nigeria.
Moreover, this advancement fosters economic empowerment by enabling students and artisans to produce high-quality ceramic wares that can be marketed and sold. This aligns with national goals of promoting self-sufficiency in the creative industry, equipping students with the necessary skills to establish careers in ceramics production, and supporting local craftsmanship. The kiln’s consistent performance also means that the department can increase its output, meeting both academic and commercial demands.
The success of this project was made possible through the generous support of the Institutional Capacity Building Program under the African Regional and Innovation Fund for Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology. Special appreciation goes to Professor Onyewuchi Akaranta, who served as the Principal Investigator, and Professor Ibiseme Etela, the Co-Principal Investigator, for their unwavering commitment to the initiative. The Department of Fine Arts and Design also recognizes the steadfast support of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill, and the entire University of Port Harcourt community, whose dedication to fostering creativity and innovation has made this achievement possible.
While this marks a significant step forward, the Department of Fine Arts and Design remains hopeful that the unfinished workshops will be completed and that additional facilities will be put in place. These improvements would further enhance ceramics education and practice, enabling the department to produce outstanding creative works, promote innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the creative economy.
The test firing of the gas kiln is not just a technological advancement; it is a statement of the university’s commitment to sustainability, skill development, and artistic excellence. With continued support and investment in the department’s infrastructure, the University of Port Harcourt is well-positioned to lead in ceramics education and practice, both in Nigeria and beyond.
The gas kiln is a downdraft kiln with a 17-ft tall chimney, designed to fire both bisque and gloss wares, offering a versatile and efficient solution for ceramics production and creative exploration. The University of Port Harcourt proudly acknowledges Professors Akaranta, Etela, and Peters for this remarkable feat and expresses profound gratitude to the African Regional and Innovation Fund for its tremendous support. Uniport continues to forge ahead in sustainability, skill development, and artistic excellence in ceramics education in Nigeria.
