FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES HOLDS 4TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL HYBRID CONFERENCE AT COOU ULI CAMPUS

The Faculty of Natural Sciences, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Campus, on Wednesday, 13th May, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Development and Uli Campus Affairs, Prof. Sylvia Ifeyinwa Okonkwo, as part of activities marking the Faculty’s 4th Annual International Hybrid Conference.

Speaking during the visit, the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Prof. Ifeoma Mbachu, informed the Deputy Vice Chancellor that the conference was themed “Interdisciplinary Approaches to Biotechnology for Sustainable Development and Economic Advancement.” She noted that the conference was designed to showcase the innovative and research-driven capacity of scientists within the Faculty, especially in the area of biotechnology and sustainable development.

Prof. Mbachu further stated that the conference marked a historic moment as it was the first time a faculty based at the Uli Campus was hosting an international conference within the campus while also livestreaming the event to a global audience. She emphasized the Faculty’s commitment to advancing scientific innovations capable of driving economic growth and societal transformation.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Prof. Chinyelu Nkiruka Umeaku, appreciated the support received towards the successful organization of the conference. She highlighted the importance of collaboration between the University and critical stakeholders in society, particularly traditional institutions and development-oriented leaders. Prof. Umeaku explained that the choice of the Traditional Ruler of Oba, HRM Igwe Engr. Augustine C. Emelove, Eze-Okpoko II of Oba, as Chairman of the Occasion, was informed by his demonstrated interest in innovation, agriculture, community development, and sustainable partnerships capable of translating academic research into practical societal benefits.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Conference and Traditional Ruler of Oba, HRM Igwe Engr. Augustine C. Emelove, Eze-Okpoko II of Oba, expressed delight at being part of the conference and visiting the Uli Campus of the University. He stated that his participation was driven by the desire to explore areas of partnership between his community and the University, especially in biotechnology and agriculture. The monarch further assured the University community of his readiness to collaborate with the institution in translating academic and research outputs into practical production and developmental initiatives that would benefit society.

Responding, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Development and Uli Campus Affairs, Prof. Sylvia Ifeyinwa Okonkwo, commended the Faculty of Natural Sciences for organizing the conference and described it as a critical academic engagement capable of advancing the University’s developmental vision.

She noted that the image and visibility of the University have significantly improved under the administration of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, thereby restoring pride among students, staff, and alumni of the institution. Prof. Okonkwo further remarked that the presence of the Chairman of the Occasion reflected the social capital and strategic networking strength of the Chairman of the LOC, Prof. Chinyelu Nkiruka Umeaku, whose efforts, she noted, had attracted friends and partners to the University community.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor also aligned the conference theme with the University administration’s guiding principles of the “3Vs” — Values, Viability, and Visibility — stressing that biotechnology and interdisciplinary research remain vital tools for sustainable development and economic advancement.

The highlight of the event was the main conference session held at the Old ETF Auditorium, Uli Campus, which attracted participants from within and outside the University community through both physical and virtual participation.

©COOUNewS, 2026.