Experts at the 23rd Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting of the Society for Experimental Biology of Nigeria (NISEB) have emphasized the transformative potential of experimental biology in addressing pressing global challenges.
Held on August 13, 2024, at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), the conference focused on the theme: “Emerging Technologies in Experimental Biology: Catalysts for Food Security, Wellbeing, and Sustainable Development.”
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Abiodun Adebayo, Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, represented by Professor Olubanke Ogunlana, stated, “Emerging technologies unlock new breakthroughs and offer solutions to critical challenges in the environment. The evolution of technological advancement in experimental biology is a story of continuous innovation and discovery. Each new technology has given rise to a new discipline with the ability to explore and provide solutions to our societal problems.”
Professor Ogunlana stressed the necessity for collaboration among stakeholders to maximize the potential of experimental biology.
“To harness the full potential of experimental biology, stakeholders must work together to promote innovation, ethical practices, inclusive access, in addition to increased funding, more collaboration, and engaging in public dialogue and capacity building,” he noted.
He further pointed out that the future of experimental biology is crucial in tackling global challenges as technological advancement continues to reshape the field.
In a related discussion, Professor Olufemi Akindele, Vice Chancellor of Redeemers University, highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research collaborations amidst emerging technologies. Presenting on “Emerging Trends in Data Analytics for Experimental Biology,” he remarked, “The exponential growth of data has necessitated the use of modern technology. Data analysis is transforming experimental biology. It is driving scientific progress. The future of this field holds immense potential to empower scientists to extract meaningful research results.”
Professor Adenike Oladiji, Vice Chancellor of FUTA, echoed the significance of experimental biology, stating, “The significance of experimental biology can be appreciated through its centrality to disciplines in life sciences, health sciences, agriculture, chemical engineering, food science, and technology. These peculiar scientists not only proffer solutions to many issues of our daily existence but also do so innovatively in order to achieve sustainability.”
In his welcome address, Professor Bamidele Owoyele, President of NISEB, described the society as “a multidisciplinary scientific society that brings together many people spread across disciplines in agriculture, life sciences, medical sciences, pharmacy, policymakers, and administrators. The society continues to address thematic areas of science for development.”
Professor Afolabi Akinmoladun, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, emphasized the conference’s unique opportunity for learning, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.
A highlight of the conference was the robing ceremony, where honorary and academic fellowships were conferred upon deserving academics. Professor Adenike Oladiji, who received her academic fellowship award in absentia in 2023, was formally robed at the event.
The honourary awards went to Professor Paul Bako, Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University; Professor Adebayo Fasakin, former Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji; and Professor Oluwole Akinyele, a member of the governing council of FUTA.
Additionally, academic fellowships were awarded to Professor Akpovughaye Taiga from Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, and Professor E. A. Omoregie from the University of Benin, Edo State.
