The Faculty of Dentistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, organized a one-day conference themed “3D Bioprinting for Medical Applications: Fabrication of Human Tissues and Organs” aimed at advancing the department’s technological capabilities.

The program commenced with a welcoming address from Prof. Tope Esan (Dean of Dentistry), who highlighted the Faculty’s top-ranking  as the best dental school in Nigeria, and one of the best three in Africa and the highest rated undergraduate program in Obafemi Awolowo University. He urged the Vice-Chancellor to promote the Faculty’s achievements and advocated for the employment of intellectual minds to sustain the established standards.

The Provost, echoed the sentiments of the Dean of Dentistry, acknowledged the department’s exceptional strides despite being the smallest Faculty in the University. He commended the Faculty for their nurturing their various roles in building the university and praised their collective achievements.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babajide Odu congratulated the Dentistry Dean, students, and staff, describing the department as trailblazers and a source of pride for the university. He encouraged them to continue their exemplary work. The event was then declared open.

The lecture by one of the two guest speakers, Prof. Akinjide Oluwajobi (Director of Aerospace), emphasized the empowerment potential of technology, focusing on 3D printing applications in Dentistry for creating human tissues and organs. Attendees were urged to explore 3D printing as a cost-accessible means of enhancing creative abilities.

Dr. T.O. Alabi (Department of Anthropology and Sociology), the second guest speaker delved into “Understanding the Impact of Cultural Belief and Practices on Dental Healthcare among the Yorubas,” exploring Yoruba beliefs about the human entity and their classification into ‘Ara,’ ‘Emi,’ and ‘Ori.’ There is a huge cultural emphasis on social functions of the mouth, with minimal attention to oral health implications.

The program concluded with closing remarks delivered by Dr. Akiniyi. Present at the conference were Prof. Dayo Sowande, Prof. Femi Koya (Chairman Committee of Deans), and other distinguished professors, health care workers and students of secondary schools.