Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have emphasised the critical role of science laboratory technologists in advancing research, innovation, and sustainable development within universities.

They described laboratory scientists as the “silent pillars” of higher education, insisting that no university system could thrive without well-equipped laboratories and the professionals who sustain them.

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 between Tuesday, August 19 and Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Faculty of Pharmacy Auditorium. The conference had the theme: “The Tripod Stand in the University: The Role of Science Laboratories in Transformational Research and Sustainable Management.”

‘The Unseen Engine Room’

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,” Adebowale said, calling for greater government funding to sustain their work.

Laboratories as the Birthplace of Innovation

Keynote speaker, Prof. Abiodun Denloye, represented by Prof. Olubukola Adenubi of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, said 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, delivering a paper on “Strengthening Institutional Framework for Research Management: The Role of Laboratory Technologists in Achieving University’s Global Academic Excellence,” urged African scientists to ensure their research findings are applicable to society.

“Africans must solve Africa’s problems. Our laboratories must become the engine rooms of solutions that transform our communities,” she said.

Building Capacity for the Future

President of ASLTON (UI Chapter), Dr. Elizabeth O. Joel, said the biennial conference provides 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 lamenting inadequate funding as a major obstacle to research.

Other dignitaries at the event included UI Registrar, G. O. Saliu; Acting DG of NISLT, Dr. Peter Oluwafisoye; and NTA Ibadan Zonal Director, Iterogba Taiwo, among others.