The Organization for Women in Science for Developing World (OWSD), at the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA , has celebrated its 15th anniversary with a renewed commitment to promoting excellence, innovation and leadership among women in science and technology and a call for systemic translation of scientific ideas and research outcomes into practical solutions and sustainable ventures.
In a lecture delivered in commemoration of the event, the Guest Lecturer and Vice Chancellor, University Of Fortune ,Igbo Tako, Ondo State , Professor Ayo Olajuyigbe posited that in an increasingly technology driven and competitive world, the institutions and society that will shape the future are those capable of combining intellectual excellence with practical relevance. The lecturer underscored the critical role of translating scientific ideas and research outcomes into practical solutions and sustainable ventures capable of driving socio-economic development.
Professor Olajuyigbe emphasized that scientific excellence extends beyond academic achievements and research publication as the true relevance of science lies in its ability to solve real-world problems, create value, and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.The lecturer who said he was inspired by the role OWSD continues to play in redefining the landscape of knowledge, mentorship and innovation across the developing world charged them to cultivate innovative mindsets, embrace entrepreneurship, and seek opportunities to commercialize research findings.
He urged Participants to move from merely generating ideas to developing impactful ventures that can address challenges in healthcare, agriculture, technology, environmental sustainability, and other critical sectors. According to him, “the challenge before women scientists particularly in developing countries is therefore to sustain both excellence and relevance simultaneously :to produce research that is intellectually rigorous while also responding meaningfully to societal needs.”
Professor Olajuyigbe, who was represented by Prof Olukayode Rotowa of the department of urban and Regional Planning FUTA represented identified challenges confronting Women Scientists to include inadequate funding, weak research infrastructure, policy inconsistency among others called on government to increase investment in science, technology and innovation while strengthening policies that support research commercialization, innovation ecosystems and gender inclusion within stem
In a remark at the occasion, the Vice Chancellor of FUTA Professor Adenike Oladiji affirmed that OWSD has consistently foster increased participation of women from developing countries in scientific and technological research, teaching, and leadership. “Women are peculiar in many ways in terms of biological makeup cultural responsibility and obligations as well as societal challenges it is therefore critical for female scientist to come together with the understanding of their peculiar challenges in support and mentor each other to scale the economic and social political orders on their ways to the pinnacles of their respective careers and also in actualization of their aspirations,” the Vice Chancellor said. Oladiji who was represented by the university librarian Dr Robert Awoyemi celebrated the leadership and members of OSWD, FUTA branch for their good leadership which kept the organization on since the past 15 years.
In a welcome address ,the coordinator OWSD FUTA Branch Dr Lydia Adeleke a called on members of the organization to remain committed to unity, integrity ,mutual respect ,mentorship and purposeful collaboration. According to her the organization was established in FUTA in 2010 under the visionary leadership of Prof Ibiyinka Fuwape with the aim of promoting unity among women, advancing academic and professional excellence and contributing meaningfully to the growth of FUTA. She said OWSD has grown into a vibrant platform for mentorship , empowerment ,collaboration and service.
In a good will message Professor Folasade Olajuyigbe , who is the national chairperson OWSD Nigeria, pointed out that the organization has grown into a network of over 3,000 members across 49 branches in the six geopolitical zones of the country which reflects the dedication of members and leadership to scientific excellence, mentorship, inclusiveness in International Development.
The anniversary celebration featured presentation of awards to individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the growth and advancement of the OWSD.
OWSD is an international network of women in science dedicated to supporting women scientists across developing countries, through research opportunities, leadership development training and professional networking programs.