Participants at the 15th anniversary celebration of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) Branch, have called for greater efforts to translate scientific research and innovations into practical solutions and sustainable ventures capable of addressing societal challenges and driving eonomic growth.
The call was made during a commemorative lecture held as part of activities marking the milestone anniversary of the organisation, which has spent the last 15 years promoting excellence, innovation, mentorship and leadership among women in science and technology.
Delivering the anniversary lecture, the Vice-Chancellor of , Professor Ayo Olajuyigbe, stressed the need for scientists, particularly women researchers, to move beyond academic achievements and research publications by transforming their findings into marketable products and impactful ventures.
Represented by Professor Olukayode Rotowa of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, FUTA, Olajuyigbe noted that institutions and societies that would shape the future are those capable of combining intellectual excellence with practical relevance.
He said the true value of science lies in its ability to solve real-world problems, create value and contribute to socio-economic development.
“The challenge before women scientists, particularly in developing countries, is to sustain both excellence and relevance simultaneously by producing research that is intellectually rigorous while also responding meaningfully to societal needs,” he said.
The lecturer encouraged participants to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship and seek opportunities to commercialise their research findings in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, technology and environmental sustainability.
He also identified inadequate funding, weak research infrastructure and policy inconsistencies as some of the major challenges facing women scientists. He urged governments at all levels to increase investment in science, technology and innovation while strengthening policies that support research commercialisation, innovation ecosystems and gender inclusion in STEM fields.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of , Professor Adenike Oladiji, commended OWSD for its role in advancing the participation of women from developing countries in scientific and technological research, teaching and leadership.
Represented by the University Librarian, Dr Robert Awoyemi, Oladiji noted that women face unique biological, cultural and societal challenges, making collaboration and mentorship among female scientists essential for professional growth and leadership development.
“It is critical for female scientists to come together with an understanding of their peculiar challenges, support and mentor one another as they strive to attain the highest levels in their careers and aspirations,” she said.
The vice-chancellor also praised the leadership and members of the FUTA branch of OWSD for sustaining the organisation’s activities over the past 15 years.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Coordinator of OWSD FUTA Branch, Dr Lydia Adeleke, urged members to remain committed to unity, integrity, mutual respect, mentorship and purposeful collaboration.
She explained that the organisation was established at FUTA in 2010 under the leadership of Professor Ibiyinka Fuwape to promote unity among women, advance academic and professional excellence, and contribute to the growth of the university.
According to Adeleke, the organisation has since evolved into a vibrant platform for mentorship, empowerment, collaboration and community service.
In a goodwill message, the National Chairperson of , Professor Folasade Olajuyigbe, disclosed that the organisation now has more than 3,000 members across 49 branches in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
She said the growth reflects the commitment of members and leaders to scientific excellence, mentorship, inclusiveness and international development.
The anniversary celebration also featured the presentation of awards to individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the growth and advancement of OWSD.
OWSD is an international network dedicated to supporting women scientists in developing countries through research opportunities, leadership development programmes and professional networking initiatives.
