The Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, has advised scholars, researchers, and practitioners to ensure their innovations contribute to sustainable development.

Abdul, who stated this at the seventh International Conference and Exhibition of the college, noted that innovation in science and technology remained the bedrock of societal progress.

At the event themed: ‘Scientific and technological innovations: Catalysts for sustainable transformation and development,’ Abdul, who was represented by Deputy Rector, Academics, Dr Ismail Badmus, emphasised the unique position of scientists and technologists as catalysts for transformation.

He underscored the importance of research and innovation in developing new technologies and fostering a sustainability-focused mindset, from renewable energy solutions to smarter urban planning.

Abdul added that the event served as a platform for exchanging ideas, research, and knowledge, which were essential for addressing pressing global challenges, such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities.

The rector noted that science and technology should not merely be tools, but rather, driving forces for transformative change across various sectors.He said: “Tertiary institutions in Nigeria must recognise that innovation in science and technology can redefine industries, enhance productivity, and improve quality of life. Our role as scholars and practitioners extends beyond innovation for its own sake; we must ensure our advancements support sustainable development, meeting present needs without compromising future generations.”

The lead speaker, Prof. Olusegun Ayejuyo, in his paper, noted that the concept of innovation involves deliberate interventions to address concrete problems.
He explained that advancements in science would often lead to technological breakthroughs and vice versa, emphasising that such innovations significantly impact quality of life, economic growth, and job creation.

Keynote speaker, Dr Sesan Olufolabo, revealed the vital role of statistics in achieving sustainable development goals, by providing essential data for measuring progress and informing policy decisions.

Olufolabo noted that statistics were crucial for driving research that leads to innovative solutions for sustainable development challenges.
Dean of the School of Science, Dr Abiodun Ashiru, welcomed participants, asserting the conference’s importance in exploring scientific and technological innovations at this critical time in human history.