History was made on Friday, December 6, 2024, as a research team of Covenant University unveiled a virtual Chemistry laboratory App, an innovation that allows students anywhere in the world to carry out experiments and research with full complement of equipment outside a physical laboratory setting.
Launching the new invention known as e-Virtual Chemistry Laboratory App, at Covenant University, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, described the innovation as a monumental Leap forward, in the nation’s educational landscape.
Arigbabu, who was represented by the Director of Science and Technolgy, Ogun State Ministry Of Education, Mrs Abosede Edun, noted that the new application represents another opportunity for students to go beyond being consumers of knowledge to being creators of solution, adding that the virtual laboratory system empowers our students to explore, experiment, and innovate in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Earlier, in his opening remarks at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Covenant University, Professor Timothy A. Anake, appreciated all dignitaries from far and near and congratulated the Research Team who worked tirelessly to see that the research endeavour yields impactful results. He also noted the contributions of the Research partnership of DOW Nigeria which offered immense support to the research team.
“This will go a long way to revolutionise the learning of Chemistry; we hope this will extend to physics and mathematics. This is also happening at a very good time when Covenant University is running with Vision 7-2030 which focuses on localizing solutions to local problems. Professor Omoleye and his team have done a very good work,” the Vice-Chancellor enthused.
The leader of the research team, Professor James Omoleye, a Professor of Chemistry, noted that the invention was necessitated by the need to shore up the perceived gap in knowledge of Chemistry, especially among secondary school students. He pointed out that the team was spurred to start work on the App at the wake of Covid19 epidemic that confined the world indoors and restricted schools to virtual theoretical teachings to the exclusion of practicals.
"Because of lack of Chemistry practicals in schools today, you find that the exams they are giving students, are called alternative to practicals. Alternative to practicals does not tell a student what a cylinder looks like,” he said.
The academic luminary decried the near-absence of conducive learning environment for students pursuing the sciences, particularly, Chemistry, describing the deplorable state of affairs touching the matter, he stated, “Many students passed through school just memorizing the theory they call alternative to practicals and that's how we have continued for many years. Over 80 percent of schools in Nigeria today are without Chemistry practicals or Physics practicals. Their laboratories are not functional.“
Professor Omoleye, said this unpleasant situation was a major driving force in inventing the Virtual Chemistry laboratory, adding that the technological tool will change how the subject is studied in schools across the country.
“We believe that as schools start to use it, it's going to transform Chemistry education right from secondary schools. A student is able to use the App inside his own bedroom with an Android phone. This App has many experiments and everything is open to students to carry out in their homes, using their phones," he explained.
Speaking at the launch of the App, the Managing Director, Dow Nigeria, Mr. Adebisi Adeoti, said the project is not just a milestone but also a personal achievement, adding that he had always been passionate about what he called the ‘transformative power of Chemistry.’
"My journey in this field began many years ago..in a modest classroom. This was where I discovered the wonders of chemical reactions and the endless possibilities they hold,” Mr Adeoti recalled
However, he recalled his not-so-rosy beginning, but pointed out that it spurred his pursuit of problem solving in the field. “I also recall the challenges we faced as students...limited resources, outdated equipment. When I applied to do a remedial course at the university, I made Industrial Chemistry my first choice, Industrial Chemistry my 2nd choice, Industrial chemistry my 3rd choice. I knew this was what I wanted. Today, we are using chemistry to proffer solutions to human needs,” Mr Adeoti revealed.
Dow’s helmsman had more to say of the innovative design: “As we unveil this virtual laboratory, I know we are breaking barriers. It will provide students with access to cutting-edge technology and immersive learning experiences. This virtual lab is going to allow students to conduct experiments in a safe and controlled environment. It will allow students to make mistakes, correct them, and get the answers, unlike in a physical lab,” he explained.
The project was commissioned by the Commissioner for Education in Ogun State, who was represented by Mrs. Abosede Edun. The commissioner described the feat as a transformative empowerment of students with the best possible education. He acknowledged Covenant University for leading transformational efforts in the academia across Nigeria, noting that the development is also a call to action regarding excellence in all of life’s endeavours.
