2nd Biennial OWSD Nigeria, Southwest Zonal Conference 2026: Inspiring Women, Advancing Science

The 2nd Biennial OWSD Southwest Zonal Conference 2026, hosted by the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Branch, was held from 1–4 September 2026 at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. With the theme, “Systems Thinking and Innovation: Transforming Challenges to Opportunities for National Development,” the conference brought together researchers, academics, students, innovators and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, showcase research and explore opportunities for collaboration. 

The conference attracted about 371 registered participants, including 96 students and 50 virtual participants. A total of 365 abstracts were submitted, with more than 300 presentations delivered through the technical and poster sessions. The breadth of participation and research contributions reflected the multidisciplinary character of the conference and its commitment to creating a platform for meaningful scientific exchange.

The programme addressed a wide range of issues under sub-themes including women-driven innovations in science; science and technology for value creation; innovation for a sustainable environment; social science responses to sustainability challenges; data and social realities for development; health, social welfare and innovations; geoscience, space, technology and environment; mathematical solutions for sustainable development; artificial intelligence in education, health and innovation; sustainable food security; and green innovation. In addition, it featured the inauguration of OWSD University of Ilesha were her executives were sworn in. 

Keynote and Plenary Sessions

The intellectual programme featured distinguished speakers from academia and professional practice. Prof. Stefano Armenia (PhD, Eng, MBA) of Università Telematica degli Studi IUL, Florence, Italy, delivered the keynote presentation, “The Value of Systems Thinking and System Dynamics in the Management of Complex Sustainability Challenges.” His contribution highlighted the relevance of systems thinking and system dynamics to understanding and addressing complex sustainability challenges. 

The plenary sessions featured Prof. G. O. Ogunlusi, who presented “Research and Industrial Collaboration”; Prof. Aina O. Adeogun FAS, who presented “Science out of a Box: Multidisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Approaches for Societal Impact”; Dr. O. S. Olomojobi, who presented “From Lab to Life: How the Civil Service Coordinates Research into Real-World Impact for Multisectoral National Development”; and Prof. O. A. Olasode, who presented “Systems Thinking in Solving National (Global) Health Challenges.” 

Building Capacity for Research and Collaboration

A pre-conference workshop was organised to strengthen participants' capacity in research funding and international collaboration. Prof. K. Taiwo facilitated “Think Like a Donor: Writing Proposals That Win Grants,” while Prof. Folasade M. Olajuyigbe, National Chairperson of OWSD Nigeria Chapter, facilitated “Beyond Borders: Strategies for Building Successful International Research Collaborations.”

The workshop provided participants with practical insights into developing competitive grant proposals and building meaningful international research partnerships.

Recognising Excellence and Service

The opening ceremony was graced by Her Excellency Ambassador Erelu Ngozi Abeni Adeleke, Wife of the Executive Governor of Osun State. The ceremony also provided an opportunity for OWSD Nigeria to recognise individuals whose contributions to science, leadership and society reflect the values promoted by the organisation. The awards were presented by the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Engr. Prof. Mrs. O. A. Olaseinde, FNMS, and Prof. Folasade M. Olajuyigbe.

Life Membership Awards were presented to:

• Mary Kolade (Osinowo), 
• Prof. Abimbola Adebisi Baale, Former Vice Chancellor, Westland University, Iwo, Osun State 
• Prof. Charity O. Aremu, Vice Chancellor, Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State 
• Prof. Ebunoluwa Aderonke Adejuyigbe, Vice Chancellor, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Ondo State 
• Dr. Olufolakemi Gbonjubola Olomojobi, Head of Service, Ekiti State 

The Distinguished Patron Award was presented to Her Excellency Ambassador Erelu Ngozi Abeni Adeleke.

The Champion for Change Award was presented to:

• Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke
• Prof. Stefano Armenia
• Idris Ayodeji Bello
• Prof. Ganiyu Adesola Aderounmu, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife 

A Platform for Connection, Collaboration and Impact

Beyond the presentations and awards, the conference created opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary engagement and research collaboration among participants from different fields and career stages. It demonstrated the value of bringing together scientific research, innovation, policy and practice to address complex challenges facing society.

The 2nd Biennial OWSD Southwest Zonal Conference 2026 was therefore more than a conventional academic gathering. It provided a platform for sharing knowledge, recognising excellence, strengthening research networks and inspiring collaboration, while reaffirming the important role of women scientists, researchers and innovators in contributing to sustainable development and national progress.