The Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Engr. Adedotun Abdul has advocated for a catalyst of change for driving the innovations that will lead to a more sustainable and equitable world.
The Rector, who was represented by Dr. Ismail Badmus, Deputy Rector, Academics, made this call while addressing participants at the 7th International Conference and Exhibitions in the college School of Science, themed Scientific and Technological Innovations: Catalyst for Sustainable Transformations and Developments” held recently at Yusuf Grillo Auditorium.
He said that science and technology are not mere tools but driving forces that can catalyze transformative changes across various sectors and disciplines. He stressed that innovation in science and technology has always been the backbone of societal progress and has the power to redefine industries, enhance productivity and improve quality of lives.
The rector noted that the gathering represents the convergence of ideas, research and knowledge that can pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.
He, however, urged the scientists not to overlook the importance of interdisciplinary process in their quest for sustainable transformation.
Prof. Olusegun Adejuyo of the Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, in his paper presentation, titled: The Intervention and Mediating Roles of Innovation in Waste Management towards Economic Development described innovation as the creation and application of new or improved technologies, tools, systems and process.
The don stated that, innovation is a major driver of economic growth and competitiveness.
He stated further that innovation enables the development of solutions for healthcare access, poverty alleviation, food security, etc.
In the same vein, the Keynote Speaker, Dr. Olusesan Olufolabo of the Department of Statistics, School of Science, Yaba College of Technology, in his presentation titled ‘Scientific and Technology Innovation: Catalyst for Sustainable Transformation and Development from Statistics Perspective’, maintained that statistics play a crucial role in achieving the sustainable development goals by providing the data needed to measure progress, identify gaps and for informal policy decisions.
Dr. Olufolabo emphasized that, statistics is a scientific method that involves the collection, description, analysis and inference of conclusions from qualitative data for decision making.
He highlighted some key ways statistics is linked with scientific and technology innovation: catalysts for sustainable transformation and development such as monitoring and evaluation, evidence based policy making amongst others.
In his welcome address, the Dean, School of Science, Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Abiodun Ashiru welcomed all the participants to the 7th International Conference and Exhibition, centered around scientific and technological innovation as catalyst for sustainable transformation and development.
He said the significance of the conference cannot be overstated as the participants gathered to explore the role of scientific technological innovation in sustainable transformation at this pivotal moment.
Dr. Ashiru noted that the scientists are challenged to find innovative solutions to global issues, such as climate change, food security healthcare and industrial advancement.
Adding that, scientists have power to transform our world into a more sustainable, equitable and resilient world.
The Dean appreciated the keynote speaker, panelists, presenter and exhibitors for their contributions towards the event.
According to him, “your expertise and insights are invaluable, I’m certain that all participants will benefit immensely from your knowledge”.
The Chairman Local Organizing Committee, Dr. S.A Ojokuku in his address said that the School of Science has a tradition of organizing International Conference every two years, where scientists, scholars, academics and researchers showcased their research output and brainstorm to offer solutions to problems facing the country as a nation.
He opined that the theme of the conference is unique and timely considering the challenges and problems facing the country today as a nation and at a global level.
