They referred to laboratory scientists as the “silent pillars” of higher education, stressing that no university system can flourish without well-equipped laboratories and the professionals who manage them.
This message formed the core of the Fifth Biennial Conference/Workshop of the Association of Science Laboratory Technologists of Nigeria (ASLTON), University of Ibadan Chapter, held at the Faculty of Pharmacy Auditorium from Tuesday, August 19 to Thursday, August 21, 2025. The conference was themed: “The Tripod Stand in the University: The Role of Science Laboratories in Transformational Research and Sustainable Management.”
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale—represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnership), Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose (SAN)—described laboratory technologists as “the unseen engine room of the university research process.”
“They are far more than just cleaners of tables and glassware in the laboratory; they generate precise data, maintain vital equipment, and foster a culture of safety. They are the heartbeat of research, guaranteeing accuracy, consistency, and quality,” he noted, while calling on governments to increase funding to support their work.
In his keynote address, Prof. Abiodun Denloye—represented by Prof. Olubukola Adenubi of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta—emphasized that the three core pillars of the university system: teaching, research, and community service, cannot thrive without well-functioning laboratories.
“All that we witness in society today originates from the laboratory. Whether in Medicine, Agriculture, Mathematics, or Engineering, the laboratory remains the cradle of innovation. To build stronger universities, we must first strengthen our science laboratories,” he stated.
In the same vein, Prof. Eme Owoaje, delivering a paper on “Strengthening Institutional Framework for Research Management: The Role of Laboratory Technologists in Achieving University’s Global Academic Excellence,” challenged African scientists to ensure their research outputs are more relevant to societal needs.
“Africa must provide solutions to Africa’s challenges. Our laboratories should serve as the engine rooms of innovation that drive community transformation,” she emphasized.
President of ASLTON, UI Chapter, Dr. Elizabeth O. Joel, explained that the biennial conference provides a vital platform for retraining, collaboration, and envisioning the future of science in Nigeria.
“This gathering allows experts to update their knowledge and evaluate our progress. Since 2021, the conference has reinforced our commitment to ensuring that laboratory technologists are not excluded from global scientific advancements,” she noted, while lamenting inadequate funding as a major barrier to research growth.
The event was also graced by the UI Registrar, G. O. Saliu; Acting DG of NISLT, Dr. Peter Oluwafisoye; and NTA Ibadan Zonal Director, Iterogba Taiwo, among other distinguished guests.
