The Federal College of Agriculture, Moor Plantation, Ibadan (FCAIB) has marked its inaugural World Laboratory Day celebration, with stakeholders underscoring the vital role of laboratory science in advancing agriculture and national development. The event took place at the College Lecture Theatre in Ibadan, organized by the Directorate of Technologists and Technical Staff (DITTECS) under the theme: “A Day in the Laboratory: From Soil to Harvest.”
Event Highlights and Key Participants
The gathering brought together management staff, deans, and laboratory professionals to promote scientific awareness, innovation, and the importance of laboratory practices in boosting agricultural productivity. The Deputy Provost (Academics), Dr. Victoria Okpeze, representing the Provost, Prof. Jonathan Atungwu, praised technologists for their contributions to agricultural research, especially in soil analysis and productivity enhancement.
Address by DITTECS Director
In her welcome address, the Director of DITTECS, Mrs. Abimbola Ala, described the celebration as a landmark initiative for the institution, aligning with global efforts to recognize laboratory professionals. “Laboratories remain central to advancements in science, agriculture, healthcare, and national development,” she stated, calling for increased investment in equipment, training, and professional recognition. She emphasized that laboratory practice forms the foundation of agricultural progress and urged stakeholders to uphold standards and embrace innovation.
Goodwill Messages and Stakeholder Contributions
Delivering a goodwill message, a representative of the Provost of the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Dr. Chidi Okpeze, stressed the indispensable role of laboratory science in sustaining human, plant, and animal life. Additionally, the Association of Science Laboratory Technologists of Nigeria urged greater investment in laboratory infrastructure and capacity building to enhance food security and national development.
Guest Speaker’s Insights
The guest speaker, Dr. Kate Nwokocha from the University of Ibadan, described the laboratory as the “invisible backbone” of agriculture, noting that farming decisions are largely driven by scientific data generated through laboratory processes. According to her, “Agriculture does not begin on the farm but in the laboratory.” She advocated for structured training programs to strengthen the capacity of laboratory personnel and encouraged students to acquire practical laboratory skills. She also urged farmers to utilize soil testing services to improve yield.
Support from College Deans
Other speakers, including deans of various schools within the College, lauded the initiative and called for its sustenance, describing it as a platform for professional development and collaboration. The event featured a lecture session, interactive discussions, and goodwill messages from stakeholders, culminating in a renewed call for strengthened laboratory systems in the agricultural sector.
