Experts hail role of lab technologists in Nigerian varsities
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have underscored the indispensable role of science laboratory technologists in driving research, innovation, and sustainable development in universities across the country.
They described laboratory scientists as the “silent pillars” of higher education, insisting that no university system could thrive without robust laboratories and the professionals who keep them running.
This was the focus 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 between Tuesday, August 19 and Thursday, August 21, 2025. The theme was: “The Tripod Stand in the University: The Role of Science Laboratories in Transformational Research and Sustainable Management.”
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 in the university research process.”
“They are not just cleaners of tables and glasses in the laboratory; they generate accurate data, maintain equipment, and uphold a culture of safety. They are the lifeblood of research, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and quality,” he said, urging governments to provide greater funding to sustain their work.
Keynote speaker, Prof. Abiodun Denloye, represented by Prof. Olubukola Adenubi of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, stressed that the three legs of the university tripod, teaching, research, and community service, cannot function effectively without vibrant laboratories.
“Everything we see in society today has its roots in the laboratory. From Medicine to Agriculture, from Mathematics to Engineering, the laboratory is the birthplace of innovation. To strengthen our universities, we must strengthen our science laboratories,” he said.
Similarly, Prof. Eme Owoaje, who spoke on “Strengthening Institutional Framework for Research Management: The Role of Laboratory Technologists in Achieving University’s Global Academic Excellence,” urged African scientists to make research findings more applicable to society.
“Africans must solve Africa’s problems. Our laboratories must become the engine rooms of solutions that transform our communities,” she said.
President of ASLTON, UI Chapter, Dr. Elizabeth O. Joel, said the biennial conference serves as a platform for retraining, collaboration, and reimagining the future of science in Nigeria.
“We bring together experts to update our knowledge and to appraise ourselves. Since 2021, this conference has strengthened our vision to ensure that laboratory technologists are not left behind in global advancements,” she said, while decrying inadequate funding as one of the greatest obstacles facing research.
Also present were UI Registrar, G. O. Saliu; Acting DG of NISLT, Dr. Peter Oluwafisoye; and NTA Ibadan Zonal Director, Iterogba Taiwo, among other dignitaries.
