Federal Polytechnic Oko School of Science and Technology Holds Maiden International Hybrid Conference

The Federal Polytechnic Oko has marked a milestone as its School of Science and Technology successfully hosted its first International Hybrid Conference with the theme “Laboratory Science, Research and Technology: The Basis for Innovation, Sustainability and Economic Development.”

In her opening address, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. Kenneth Ezekwe, commended the school for the historic initiative. She underscored the central role of science and technology in human progress, noting that “progress has always been driven by science and sustained by technology. Every major breakthrough that has transformed societies—from the discovery of electricity to the development of vaccines, to the emergence of digital technology—began with research, often in modest laboratories, nurtured by curiosity, tested through discipline and refined by perseverance.”

Dr. Awuzie urged greater national investment in science, technology, and research to transform Nigeria’s economy, pointing out the polytechnic’s unique strength in providing practical solutions. She emphasized that laboratory research in polytechnics has the potential to drive industry, improve agriculture, advance healthcare, and foster sustainable development. “Laboratories are the birthplaces of tomorrow. They are silent rooms where ideas that seem impossible are tested into possibility and where the invisible foundations of economic development are laid,” she added.

Welcoming participants, the Dean of the School of Science and Technology, Dr. Augustina Ugonwa Genevieve Okeke, expressed gratitude to the Rector for her support in elevating the school to full status, providing solar energy systems for laboratories and workshops, and initiating plans for a new science and technology complex. She reiterated the importance of laboratories in bridging theory and practice, saying: “Laboratories play a vital role in advancing research, supporting healthcare, and driving industrial processes. They serve as the bridge between theoretical science and practical application, enabling innovation and hands-on problem-solving across all sectors.”

Dr. Okeke further charged scientists, researchers, and technologists to rise to the demands of an era marked by artificial intelligence, renewable energy, biotechnology, green science, and digital processes.

Chairman of the occasion, Dr. James Obi Okpala, described the conference theme as apt and highly relevant to national development. “The relevance of the theme cuts across all sectors—industries, economy, and education,” he said, stressing that research is the key to innovation and scientific growth. He called for stronger investments in research as a pathway to building a robust economy.

Keynote speaker, Prof. Daniel N. Obiorah of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, a professor of Geophysics, highlighted laboratory science as the backbone of modern civilisation. He noted that laboratory-driven innovations have revolutionized agriculture, healthcare, energy, and industry. “Research carved in laboratories gave birth to almost all forms of modern technology. Laboratories are crucibles where innovations are born, tested, and refined into practical solutions that shape economic and human existence,” Prof. Obiorah asserted.

Also presenting papers at the conference, Prof. F.B.C. Okoye of Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s Department of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry called on researchers to pioneer innovation in natural products research. He urged professionals to explore untapped sources of natural products for applications in agriculture, food, industry, and medicine, warning against leaving the field to quacks.

The second lead presenter, Dr. Friday C. Okei, Managing Director and CEO of Okeson Chemical Associate Ltd., Onitsha, delivered a paper titled “Entrepreneurship: Panacea to Unemployment and Sustainable Economic Development.” He emphasized entrepreneurship as a driving force for economic empowerment and national growth.

The maiden international hybrid conference set the tone for the School of Science and Technology’s vision to drive innovation through research and collaboration, positioning Federal Polytechnic Oko as a hub for sustainable technological advancement.