The Nigerian Young Academy (NYA), in collaboration with Lagos State University (LASU), is set to hold its 16th International Conference and General Assembly from August 16 to 20, 2026, at LASU’s Ojo campus in Lagos.
Here are eight things to know about the conference:
1. The conference will take place at LASU
The five-day event will be held at the Ojo campus of Lagos State University from August 16 to 20, 2026.
2. It will bring together experts from different fields
The conference is expected to attract academics, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners and civil society organisations from Nigeria and abroad.
3. The theme focuses on research, innovation and policy
The conference is themed “Convergent Research for Global Impact: Integrating Knowledge, Innovation and Policy.”
The organisers said the theme reflects the need for interdisciplinary research and innovation to address complex societal and global challenges.
4. Several major issues will be discussed
Discussions will cover areas including sustainable development, public health, disease prevention, urban resilience, smart cities, energy systems, environmental policy, human-centred technology, rural development, food security and agribusiness.
The conference will also examine ethics in convergence science and the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in governance, planning and risk assessment.
5. There will be an AI-focused pre-conference workshop
Before the main conference, participants will have access to a workshop titled “Building Research Capacity in the AI Era: Grant Writing and Practical Data Analysis Using R.”
The workshop is expected to focus on practical research skills in an increasingly AI-driven research environment.
6. The programme will feature several academic activities
The conference will include keynote and plenary sessions, lead paper presentations, oral and poster presentations, scientific awards and networking opportunities.
The keynote address will be delivered by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi.
7. LASU and NYA leaders will host the event
The President of the Nigerian Young Academy, Professor Temitope Onuminya, will host the conference, while the LASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, will serve as chief host.
Associate Professor Abdul-Azeez Adeyemi Anjorin of LASU is the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee.
8. Students, researchers and professionals can participate
The conference is open to scholars, students, professionals and stakeholders across academia, government, industry and civil society.
The NYA said the event will provide opportunities for researchers to present their work, build collaborations and develop partnerships capable of influencing research, innovation and public policy.
The Nigerian Young Academy was established in 2010 by the Nigerian Academy of Science, with support from the Nigerian Academy of Education and the Nigerian Academy of Engineering. It promotes research excellence, leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement among outstanding early-career researchers and professionals.
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