Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku Hosts Successful Maiden Hybrid International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development
The School of Applied Sciences, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, has recorded another historic milestone with the successful hosting of its 2026 Maiden Hybrid International Conference, a landmark academic event that brought together distinguished scholars, researchers, policymakers, professionals, industry experts, academics, and students from Nigeria and different parts of the world.
The four-day international conference, held from 6th to 9th July, 2026, was organised by the School of Applied Sciences in conjunction with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) under the leadership of Dr. Timothy Oni, with the support of Dean School of Applied Sciences Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi and the Polytechnic Management led by the Acting Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Joy Erere Anho.
Held at the Polytechnic’s Event Centre, the conference adopted a hybrid format, enabling participants to attend both physically and virtually. The event witnessed impressive participation from universities, polytechnics, research institutions, government establishments, industries and professionals from within and outside Nigeria, making it one of the most successful international academic gatherings in the institution’s history.
Theme Focused on Artificial Intelligence
The conference was centred on the theme:
“Artificial Intelligence in Scientific Research/Innovation for Sustainable National Growth and Development.”
The theme explored the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in scientific discoveries, technological innovation, education, healthcare, agriculture, engineering, environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship and economic development.
Participants examined how emerging AI technologies can accelerate sustainable national development while encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research capable of solving real-world challenges.
Acting Rector’s Address Delivered by Polytechnic Librarian
Although the Acting Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Joy Erere Anho, was unavoidably absent, her goodwill message was delivered on her behalf by the Acting Polytechnic Librarian, Mr. Chukwudi Aniogbolu.
In her address, the Acting Rector warmly welcomed participants and appreciated researchers, scholars and professionals who travelled from different parts of Nigeria and abroad, as well as those who joined virtually.
She reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, quality research, innovation and international collaboration, while commending the School of Applied Sciences and the Local Organising Committee for organising a conference of international standard capable of positioning the Polytechnic among leading centres of research and innovation.
She further encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity provided by the conference to exchange ideas, build partnerships and develop innovative solutions that would contribute meaningfully to sustainable national growth.
Dean Welcomes Participants
The Dean of the School of Applied Sciences, Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi, expressed profound appreciation to the Polytechnic Management, members of the Local Organising Committee, keynote speakers, lead paper presenters, researchers and participants for their commitment towards the success of the maiden conference.
He described the conference as the beginning of a new era of international academic engagement for the School of Applied Sciences, noting that the institution remains committed to promoting quality research, innovation and global collaboration.
Dr. Agbedeyi stated that the conference was conceived to provide a platform where scholars, scientists and professionals could collectively examine how Artificial Intelligence can transform scientific research and contribute to solving developmental challenges facing Nigeria and the global community.
He also appreciated participants who attended physically and virtually, describing their overwhelming support as a strong indication of confidence in the Polytechnic’s academic programmes.
Conference Climaxed with Keynote Address
The conference reached its peak with an inspiring keynote address delivered by Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education, Delta State through his representative Dr. Egbulem.
Professor Tonukari extensively examined the transformational role of Artificial Intelligence in scientific research and innovation, highlighting its enormous potential to revolutionise education, healthcare, biotechnology, engineering, agriculture, environmental management and industrial development.
He challenged researchers to embrace emerging technologies responsibly while maintaining ethical standards, originality and scientific integrity.
The Commissioner also commended Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, for initiating an international conference capable of attracting global participation and promoting research excellence.
Distinguished Lead Paper Presenters
The conference featured insightful lead paper presentations by eminent scholars.
Among them was Professor Hillary Owamah, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Delta State University, Abraka, whose presentation focused on innovative approaches to scientific research and sustainable technological advancement.
Another lead paper was presented by Dr. Moses Yilleng of the Laboratory for Applied Molecular Modelling (LAMM), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa, who joined other international participants in discussing contemporary research trends and collaborative opportunities in Artificial Intelligence and scientific innovation.
Their presentations generated stimulating discussions and practical recommendations for strengthening research capacity within higher institutions.
Technical Sessions and Research Presentations
The conference featured several technical sessions where researchers presented scholarly papers across various disciplines within the applied sciences.
Participants exchanged ideas on Artificial Intelligence applications in mathematics, statistics, computer science, environmental science, biological sciences, chemistry, physics, engineering technologies and other emerging fields.
The sessions provided opportunities for peer review, constructive academic engagement, networking and collaboration among researchers from different institutions.
Massive Participation
The conference recorded remarkable attendance from both physical and virtual participants.
Among those in attendance were members of the Polytechnic Management, principal officers, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, academic and non-academic staff, students, researchers, invited guests, industry professionals and representatives of various higher institutions.
Students of Delta State Polytechnic also participated actively, gaining valuable exposure to emerging global research trends and innovations.
The seamless integration of virtual participation further enabled international scholars and participants from different countries to contribute meaningfully to the conference proceedings.
Successful Organisation
The Local Organising Committee, under the chairmanship of Dr. Timothy Oni, received widespread commendation for the excellent planning and smooth coordination of the conference.
Participants praised the organisation, hospitality, quality of presentations, technical support and conducive learning environment that characterised the four-day event.
The conference further demonstrated the School of Applied Sciences’ growing capacity to organise world-class academic programmes capable of attracting international recognition.
Conference Sets New Academic Standard
The successful hosting of the maiden hybrid international conference has undoubtedly positioned Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, as an emerging hub for research excellence, innovation and international academic collaboration.
Participants unanimously described the conference as intellectually rewarding, professionally enriching and timely, expressing optimism that subsequent editions would continue to attract greater international participation and contribute significantly to national and global development through research-driven innovations.
As the curtains fell on the historic conference, participants departed with renewed commitment to advancing scientific research, embracing Artificial Intelligence responsibly and strengthening collaborations that will foster sustainable development across Nigeria and beyond.
Source: Global Egberi Media International by Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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