By Joy Adeyiga & Femi Dansu

Scholars in the field of Physics have converged in the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) for the Joint International Centre of Theoretical Physics (ICTP)-International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)-FUNAAB Sub-Saharan Africa School on the Applications of Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics Simulations in Radiation and Health Physics.

Addressing the participants at the Postgraduate School Auditorium on June 24, 2024, during the Opening Ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde charged the organisers and participants of the school to ensure the sustainability of the knowledge and skills that would be acquired by incorporating follow-up strategies, such as post-school mentorship, research collaboration, as well as cooperation, in the form of students and staff exchanges among the institutions taking part in the school.

Prof. Kehinde commended the efforts of the organisers in bringing the scientific activity to the Department of Physics in particular and FUNAAB in general.

He described FUNAAB as a foremost specialised University of Agriculture, that has contributed immensely to research and development within and outside the country.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the Abdus Salam International Centre of Theoretical Physics for its financial support, noting that this was the second time the Physics Department has hosted a similar programme.

He noted that through such efforts, young and gifted Theoretical Physicists from developing countries no longer have to leave their countries before pursuing a career in Theoretical Physics.

Stressing the symbolic coincidence of the current school being hosted alongside the 60th anniversary of the establishment of ICTP, he stated that it was a confirmation of the Centre’s continuous endurance in pursuit of the noble goals of the founding fathers to extend world-class research skills and opportunities to scientists in the developing world.

He wished the participants successful academic engagements and urged them to take an active interest in the programme of the school, as well as find time to enjoy FUNAAB’s serene environment and landscape.

Earlier, the Head of Department, of Physics, Prof. Itunu Okeyode welcomed all participants who attended the scientific school physically and virtually, urging them to take advantage of the activity to foster post-activity collaborations and cooperation among themselves.

Corroborating the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Okeyode acknowledged the support and sponsorship of the organisers of the school at the Sub-Saharan Africa level.

She revealed that staff and students alike have enjoyed the long relationship between Abdus Salam ICTP and FUNAAB. Such relationships according to her included Associate Programmes, Federal Agreement, Young Collaborator and Visiting Scientist Programme, among others.

She lauded the Department for evolving over the years and acknowledged that the Physics Department was one of the oldest Departments in the University having metamorphosed from the Department of Physical Science to its current name.