OAU STUDENTS AID A NEW INNOVATION
The Department of Chemistry at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has launched the Smart Chemistry Project, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing science education and research while addressing real-world challenges.
The project was officially introduced during the department’s first-ever alumni meeting and fundraising event, which gathered notable alumni, respected guests, and faculty members.
Designed with advanced technology, the Smart Chemistry Project aspires to transform the department into a leading centre for scientific teaching, research, and innovation.
In his welcome remarks, Professor Adeyinka Adesina, Dean of the Faculty of Science, emphasised the project’s significance. He highlighted that modern scientific education requires more than ever before—demanding advanced tools, interactive learning experiences, and instruction aligned with contemporary scientific and technological needs.
“The Smart Chemistry Project is a response to these evolving demands,” he stated, “focusing on infrastructure development and empowering students to learn, innovate, and lead.”
He stated that the project sought to empower students to address real-world challenges and drive national development through science and innovation by equipping laboratories with cutting-edge instruments, offering hands-on training, and promoting a culture of critical thinking and creativity.
“For decades, the Department of Chemistry has been instrumental in training skilled scientists who have made significant contributions across academia, industry, government, and public service.”
The Smart Chemistry Project represents an investment not just in infrastructure, but in enhancing students’ ability to learn, innovate, and lead. Through this initiative, the goal is to upgrade laboratories with advanced equipment, provide practical training for every student, and cultivate an academic environment where critical thinking and creativity thrive.
“To truly foster innovation, students must receive training that sparks curiosity, deepens comprehension, and encourages effective problem-solving. A well-equipped laboratory is not a luxury — it’s essential. It serves as the proving ground where theories are tested, ideas take shape, and scientific discoveries emerge.
“We firmly believe this initiative will not exist in isolation. As the Chemistry Department embraces this bold transformation, we hope the Smart Chemistry Project will inspire similar advancements in other departments and institutions across the country, generating a wave of educational renewal and scientific advancement,” he said.
He highlighted that the project’s impact is expected to go beyond the Department of Chemistry, serving as a catalyst for similar transformations across other departments and institutions nationwide. He emphasized that the initiative has the potential to spark a ripple effect of educational reform and scientific advancement, ultimately contributing to a more innovative and self-sufficient Nigeria.
Former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Professor Oladapo Afolabi, underscored the significance of the project, describing it as a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform the Chemistry Department into a center of excellence for advanced scientific teaching, research, and innovation.
OAU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Bamire, praised the project, calling it both timely and aligned with the university’s mission to uphold academic and research excellence. “We take great pride in our alumni,” he stated. “Their unwavering passion and commitment have provided support beyond what government alone can offer.”
The launch of the Smart Chemistry Project signals a new chapter in scientific education and research at OAU. As the Department of Chemistry embraces this progressive move, it stands ready to shape the next generation of scientists and innovators, guided by a collective vision of innovation, growth, and excellence
credit: MIKE-MEDIA
