The 2nd Southwest Biennial Zonal Conference of OWSD Nigeria

The  South-West Zonal Biennial Conference 2026, scheduled to hold from 1–4 September 2026, is a flagship regional gathering of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Nigeria Chapter. Hosted by the OWSD Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Branch, the conference will convene women scientists, researchers, innovators, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, and students across disciplines.

Conference Theme

SYSTEMS THINKING AND INNOVATION: TRANSFORMING CHALLENGES TO OPPORTUNITIES FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The 2026 conference adopts a systems-thinking approach to national development, recognizing that today’s complex challenges—whether in health, education, environment, food security, technology, or social systems—require interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative, research-driven solutions. By bringing together expertise from science, engineering, social sciences, technology, and policy, the conference seeks to promote integrated strategies that translate knowledge into sustainable impact.

The conference provides a dynamic platform for:

• Knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue
• Mentorship and capacity building for students and early-career researchers
• Industry–academia–policy engagement
• Showcasing women-driven innovations
• Strategic partnerships for national and regional development

A strong emphasis will be placed on affordability and inclusion to ensure broad participation, particularly among emerging scholars and young professionals.

Sub-Themes

The conference welcomes contributions aligned with the following sub-themes:

• Breaking Barriers: Women-Driven Innovations in Science
• Science and Technology for Value Creation
• Innovation for Sustainable Environment
• Bridging Knowledge and Action: Social Science Responses to Sustainability Challenges
• From Data to Dialogue: Interpreting Social Realities for Development Solutions
• Health, Social Welfare and Innovations
• Geoscience, Space, Technology and Environment
• Mathematical Solutions and Innovations for Sustainable Development
• Application of AI in Education, Health and Innovations for National Development
• Salvaging Food Security through Sustainable Inventions and Innovations
• All Things Green

Beyond technical sessions, plenary lectures, and panel discussions, the conference will celebrate excellence, recognize distinguished leaders and partners, and strengthen a community of women and allies committed to advancing STEM and innovation for sustainable national development.

The OWSD South-West Biennial Conference 2026 is not merely a gathering—it is a strategic platform for transforming research, innovation, and collaboration into measurable societal impact.