ACU Trains Technologists on Laboratory Safety, Technical Competence and Management

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has organised a workshop for its technologists and technical staff as part of the Vice-Chancellor's drive to promote holistic staff development and strengthen institutional capacity.

The workshop, held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, was themed "Enhancing Technical Competence, Laboratory Safety and Effective Laboratory Management."

The programme was aimed at strengthening the technical competence of technologists, promoting laboratory safety and improving effective laboratory management.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, appreciated the technologists for their contributions to the development of the University, describing them as the "engine room" of the institution.

She noted that laboratories serve as places where theoretical knowledge is translated into practical reality, stressing that the training was part of the University's plan to take Ajayi Crowther University to the next level.

The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the workshop was designed to improve the technical competence and professionalism of technologists, while encouraging participants to continually develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to the University's growth.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Workshop Planning Committee, Mr James Akinola, said the programme was designed to provide opportunities for learning, knowledge sharing and the exchange of practical experiences among technologists.

He noted that modern laboratories require more than technical knowledge and competence, emphasising the importance of strict adherence to safety standards, effective management practices, proper documentation, quality assurance and continuous professional development.

According to him, laboratory professionals occupy a strategic position in supporting the University's teaching, research, innovation and other institutional activities, adding that strengthening their capacity would contribute to improved laboratory services and enhanced institutional productivity.

Akinola appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for her leadership and commitment to the welfare and professional development of technologists and technical staff of the University.

Delivering a lecture titled "Enhancing Technical Competence, Laboratory Safety and Effective Laboratory Management and the Professional Technologist: Upholding Ethics, Integrity and Excellence at the Bench," the Guest Lecturer, Mr Williams Ohiorenua, emphasised that enhancing laboratory competence, safety and management is a continuous process.

He urged laboratory professionals to invest in safety through preventive measures, manage resources through proper planning and accountability, and adhere strictly to approved safety procedures.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring that all laboratory users are familiar with emergency procedures, noting that an effective laboratory must be safe, clean and properly managed.

In his lecture, the Acting Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NILST), Dr Peter Oluwafisoye, focused on "Building a Safe Workplace: Proactive Maintenance, Proper PPE Utilisation and Emergency Response Strategies" and "Building a Synergistic Laboratory: Modern Record Keeping, Data Integrity and Cross-Functional Service Excellence."

Dr Oluwafisoye urged technologists to always identify hazards in their workplaces, evaluate risks and carry out proper risk assessments before undertaking laboratory activities.

He emphasised that technologists must possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills while exercising caution in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He further encouraged participants to maintain clean laboratory environments and keep accurate records of all activities carried out in the laboratory, noting that proper record keeping is essential to effective laboratory management and service delivery.

Beyond the lectures, the workshop provided ACU technologists and technical staff with an avenue to strengthen their professional knowledge and service excellence.

The event also provided a platform for learning, knowledge sharing and the exchange of practical experiences among technologists and scientists.