The Editorial Board of DOKITA, the official journal of the University of Ibadan Medical Students’ Association, held its 53rd Annual Symposium and 42nd Journal Launch today, April 9, 2026, at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, between 10 AM and 2:15 PM.
Themed “Bridging the Gap: Innovation and Equity in 21st Century Medical Training in Nigeria,” the event began with a opening address by the Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Mong Victor, who highlighted that this year’s theme addresses pressing issues in the current medical training in Nigeria. It was followed by a welcome address by the Board chairman and 8th Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Prof. A. O. Omigbodun who has been serving in this capacity for the past 23 years, an address by the provost of the College of Medicine, Prof. T. O. Ogundiran, who was represented by Prof. T. A. Lawal, Dean of Clinical Sciences; the chairman’s speech by Prof. M. T. Shokunbi, the 6th provost of the college of medicine, and the keynote speech by Prof. A. A. Adeolu, Director CMEU, CoMUI.
In his speech titled “Frugal Innovation: Adapting Global Standards to Local Realities,” Prof. Adeolu explained that frugal innovation means being productive with scarce resources. He went on to discuss how various Nigerian health professionals and researchers have adopted frugal innovation to develop local solutions that meet global standards. Some of these innovations include the Ibadan College of Medicine Curriculum; the rapid Lassa fever diagnostic test developed by Prof. Christian Happi; locally sourced materials at Awojobi Clinic, Eruwa; the UCH bladder manikin, among others.
Following the keynote speech was the panel session comprising Prof. A. A. Odukogbe, former HOD of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Dr. Omowumi Femi-Akinlosotu, Sub-Dean, Basic Medical Sciences; and Dr. David Akoki, an Alumni of the University of Ibadan Medical Student Association. The panel discussion compared past and current medical training, identified challenges with the current system, and proposed solutions to enhance training and foster innovation. One key issue discussed was the disruption of medical training by incessant strikes. Dr. Omowumi recommended collaborating with other health facilities around the university to ensure seamless clinical postings.
Afterwards, a speech by the Oyo State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi A. Ajetunmobi, who was represented by the Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Kenhinde was delivered.
The Journal launch which followed after the speech, was anchored by the Chief Launcher and board chairman, Prof. A. O. Omigbodun. It was announced that UIMSAites who have paid their dues will receive free access to the soft copy of the journal. Awards of appreciation were presented to Prof M. T. Shokunbi, and the other 3 Panelists present.
The vote of thanks was given by the Symposium Committee Chairperson, Miss Rhoda Fadairo leading to the end of the event.
