The Department of Cell Biology and Genetics (CBG), University of Lagos (UNILAG), has celebrated its M.Sc. students at its first departmental symposium, with a charge to translate academic knowledge into practical solutions, embrace professional opportunities and pursue excellence in their chosen careers.
The symposium, themed “Science of Success: Building a Successful Career in Academia and Industry” , brought together members of the academic community, graduating students, prospective postgraduate students and invited guests to reflect on the role of science, innovation and professional development in achieving personal and career success.
In his welcome address, the Head of Department, Professor I. A. Taiwo, congratulated the graduating M.Sc. students on their achievements, describing them as an exceptional cohort whose determination and resilience had contributed significantly to the growth of the department. He acknowledged the contributions of the postgraduate coordinator and lecturers, commending their commitment to providing academic guidance, mentorship and support throughout the students’ academic journey.
Professor Taiwo also highlighted the collective efforts of the postgraduate students in building the programme from the ground up, noting that their experience involved several challenges, including demanding academic schedules, late-night communications, rigorous meetings and financial constraints. He encouraged the graduates to maintain the professional relationships established during their studies, stressing that such connections would remain valuable for future collaborations, career opportunities, references and recommendations.
Addressing concerns about the uncertainties that often accompany graduation, the Chairman of the Departmental Committee, Mr. Roland Ododo, urged the students to remain confident, embrace new opportunities and draw from the experiences of their mentors as they navigate the next phase of their lives. He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to timely graduation, noting that previous backlogs had been cleared to ensure students complete their programmes without unnecessary delays.
He also encouraged participants to relax and enjoy the celebration, taking a break from demanding scientific activities such as sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis to appreciate their collective accomplishments.
Graduates Urged to Leverage Professional Networks and Digital Platforms
Delivering the first lecture, Mr. Awe David Oluwadamilare, a Forensic DNA Analyst at the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre, encouraged graduates of Cell Biology and Genetics to remain determined in pursuing career opportunities, despite challenges in the employment market.
Mr. Awe emphasised that the knowledge and expertise acquired through academic training provide a strong foundation for professional success. However, he noted that securing opportunities requires persistence, initiative and the ability to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry expectations. He advised the graduates to actively reach out to professionals and experts in their fields, build meaningful relationships and remain undeterred by rejection, stressing that an unsuccessful attempt should not be regarded as the end of an opportunity.
Mr. Awe also highlighted the importance of leveraging academic and professional networks to identify opportunities and demonstrate the practical value of specialised skills. He encouraged the graduates to take advantage of digital platforms such as LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) to showcase their expertise, expand their professional visibility and connect with potential employers and collaborators locally and internationally.
He maintained that determination, networking, collaboration and continuous professional development are essential to overcoming employment challenges and translating academic qualifications into rewarding careers.
Mr. Awe holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Forensic Biology from the University of Lagos and is a member of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) and the Society for Forensic and Analytical Scientists of Nigeria (SFASN). He currently serves as Vice-President, Planning and Strategy, of the University of Lagos Postgraduate Students’ Association. Beyond his forensic career, he is the Founder of Forensic Naija with David and Chief Executive Officer of Western Environmental Services Limited, a cleaning and fumigation company.
Professor Njoku Advocates Practical Approaches to Problem-Solving and Academic Excellence
In another presentation, Professor Njoku Kelechi of the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, UNILAG, delivered a lecture on transforming ideas into practical solutions and building a meaningful academic career.
He emphasised that effective problem-solving begins with identifying the root causes of challenges rather than merely addressing their symptoms. He introduced strategic approaches, including the Five Cs and the Fishbone Model, as useful frameworks for analysing problems, identifying underlying factors and developing lasting solutions.
On innovation and creativity, the Professor discussed the stages of ideation, explaining how the process progresses from inspiration and incubation to illumination and execution. He stressed the importance of moving beyond conceptual thinking to implementing ideas that address real-life challenges.
Speaking on the demands of an academic career, Professor Njoku outlined the essential responsibilities of academics, including teaching, research, scholarly publications and grant acquisition. He noted that success in academia requires sustained intellectual engagement, discipline and a commitment to continuous learning.
He urged participants to approach their academic and professional journeys with purpose, consistency and determination, emphasising that meaningful success comes from the ability to transform knowledge and ideas into practical outcomes.
Report: Oluwatoyin Ojo-Alo
Photograph: Akanni Islamiat
