The Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) has inducted 160 graduates of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) into the science laboratory profession during the institution’s 12th oath-taking and induction ceremony, held on Wednesday at the university’s Ekenwan campus. The event marked a key milestone for the graduating class of Science Laboratory Technology (SLT), who now formally enter the professional community of laboratory scientists.
Speaking at the ceremony, the acting Director-General of NISLT, Mr. Paul Oluwafisoye, described the laboratory not merely as a workplace but as a sanctuary of science and a cradle of innovation. He charged the new professionals to uphold the highest ideals of their discipline, urging them to carry the SLT banner with pride and responsibility. “Your growth will depend on the value you bring, your capacity to adapt, and your commitment to lifelong development,” he said.
Oluwafisoye emphasized the need for integrity, professional ethics, and continuous learning, noting that Nigeria is in urgent need of bold, visionary and well-trained laboratory professionals who can tackle pressing scientific and developmental challenges. He explained that the SLT discipline is crucial for national transformation and contributes directly to technological advancement through research, innovation, and the design of life-improving systems and products.
In his congratulatory message, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Edoba Omorogie, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Ekenwan Campus), Professor Buniyamin Ayinde, described the induction as a landmark achievement. “You have been found worthy in learning and character to be inducted into this prestigious profession. But this is not the end. It is a new beginning,” he said, urging the inductees to become ambassadors of excellence for the university and the country.
Delivering the induction lecture, Professor Marshall Azeke spoke on the topic “Science Laboratory Technology: Catalyst for Industrial Innovation and National Development.” He stressed that the inductees’ training holds the potential to drive national progress, especially if applied with creativity, discipline, and a problem-solving mindset. He encouraged them to remain adaptable and committed to lifelong learning to stay relevant in a fast-evolving scientific world.
The Head of Department of SLT, Professor Emmanuel Oshomoh, reminded the inductees that the oath they took must serve as a compass for their professional decisions. He expressed confidence that the new professionals would uphold the ethics of the discipline and demonstrate leadership in their various career paths. “Let this oath be your guide wherever you find yourselves,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Professor Tunde Imoobe, described laboratory scientists as central to scientific research, health care, and innovation. He noted that the inductees now carry the responsibility of advancing the frontiers of science in Nigeria and must do so with excellence, ethical commitment, and national pride.
