Benin City, Nigeria – The Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) on Wednesday inducted 160 graduates of the University of Benin into the Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) profession, marking the institution’s 12th oath-taking and induction ceremony.
The ceremony, held on the university’s campus, was attended by academic leaders, industry experts, and families of the inductees who were urged to become torchbearers in scientific innovation and national development.
Acting Director General of NISLT, Mr. Paul Oluwafisoye, described the laboratory as more than a mere workplace, calling it “a sanctuary of science” and “a platform for national transformation.” He charged the new professionals to wear the SLT badge with pride and uphold the ethics and ideals of the profession.
“You are stepping into a field that thrives on integrity, continuous learning, and dedication to the development of our nation. Your growth will depend not only on your academic credentials but on your ability to innovate, adapt and stay committed to lifelong learning,” he said.
Oluwafisoye emphasized that Nigeria is in need of skilled and visionary laboratory technologists who can confront the country’s pressing scientific and developmental challenges. He added that SLT professionals are expected to develop, test, and maintain systems and technologies that impact humanity positively.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Edoba Omorogie, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Ekenwan Campus), Prof. Buniyamin Ayinde, congratulated the graduates for their academic achievement. He described the induction as a “remarkable milestone,” encouraging the new professionals not to rest on their laurels.
“You have been found worthy in character and learning. Let this moment be a launchpad for national impact. Uphold professional standards, be meticulous, and never cut corners,” Ayinde stated.
Delivering the induction lecture titled “Science Laboratory Technology: Catalyst for Industrial Innovation and National Development”, Prof. Marshall Azeke challenged the inductees to become problem-solvers and agents of change. He stressed the need for them to stay current with emerging trends in science and technology.
“Your training goes beyond the classroom. The nation is looking up to you for solutions in health care, industrial production, and environmental sustainability,” Azeke said.
Head of the SLT Department, Prof. Emmanuel Oshomoh, urged the new inductees to let the oath taken guide their decisions in both professional and leadership roles. He stressed the importance of integrity and professional ethics in building trust and credibility in the field.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Tunde Imoobe, reiterated the strategic role laboratory technologists play in scientific research, healthcare, and innovation. He encouraged the graduates to view themselves as critical players in Nigeria’s scientific and industrial advancement.
The ceremony concluded with the oath-taking exercise and a symbolic induction into the professional body, solidifying the graduates’ transition from students to certified science laboratory technologists.