FUTA Hosts Inaugural Global Summit on Green Microbiology

The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) hosted the physical segment of the inaugural Society for Green Microbiology Global Summit, bringing together academics, researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, students, and civil society representatives to explore the role of microorganisms in promoting global sustainability.

Held as part of the four-day international summit themed "Harnessing Microbial Power for a Sustainable Planet: Innovation, Integration and Impact," the event was organized by FUTA's Department of Microbiology and the International Strategy Office, with the University's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, serving as Chief Host.

The summit also marked the homecoming of FUTA alumna, Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu, founder of the Society for Green Microbiology and a pioneer of the emerging field of Green Microbiology.

Delivering the founding public lecture titled "Green Microbiology: The Microbial Blueprint for a Changing Planet," Dr. Akinsemolu described Green Microbiology as an interdisciplinary field that integrates microbial science with sustainability, climate action, innovation, ethics, and social responsibility.

She highlighted the critical role of microorganisms in sustainable agriculture, food production, wastewater treatment, pollution control, renewable energy generation, carbon management, and the conversion of waste into valuable products.

Dr. Akinsemolu also advocated the introduction of Green Microbiology into university curricula, the establishment of postgraduate programmes and specialized research laboratories, and stronger collaboration among universities, governments, industries, and communities. She urged stakeholders to embrace a new perspective on microorganisms, stating that while the 20th century focused on fearing microbes, the 21st century should emphasize working with them responsibly.

The event featured welcome remarks by Prof. Daniel J. Arotupin, while Prof. Helen N. Onyeaka of the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, delivered remarks as International Co-Chair. Prof. Charles Adetunji also presented a featured perspective lecture.

A key highlight of the summit was the Distinguished Experts Forum, which featured Prof. Babatunde Rabiu, Prof. Ganiyu Oyetibo, Prof. Kehinde Eniola, Prof. Nkem Torimiro, and Prof. Adebayo Shittu, who shared insights on advancing microbiological research and sustainable development.

The summit also witnessed the formal launch of the Society for Green Microbiology during a session chaired by Sir Chief Fred Adejo.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to microbiology, academic leadership, and mentorship, Prof. Felix A. Akinyosoye received the Society's Lifetime Achievement Award, while FUTA Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oladiji, was conferred with Distinguished Honorary Membership of the Society.

Closing the event, the Director of the International Strategy Office, Prof. Bamidele Akinyele, thanked members of the University Management, staff, researchers, industry representatives, government officials, professional bodies, invited guests, secondary school students, and undergraduate and postgraduate students for their participation. She noted that the summit had expanded participants' understanding of Green Microbiology and its relevance to addressing global environmental challenges.

The programme also featured a secondary school debate and talk competition, an innovation pitch session, exhibitions, audience engagement, and networking activities.

The successful hosting of the summit reinforced FUTA's commitment to scientific innovation, international collaboration, and the development of practical solutions to environmental and societal challenges.