The Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Club, University of Ibadan, was launched earlier today, June 14th, 2024, at the Faculty of Social Sciences Large Lecture Theatre.
The event, which took place between 9:30 AM and 1:40 PM, featured lectures on antimicrobial resistance, as well as the induction of its first set of members.
While delivering the opening remarks, the President of the AMR Club, Abdulbasit Hamza, explained the goal of the club, stating that “it is an organization that aims to combat antimicrobial resistance through awareness creation, outreaches, research, and collaborations”.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, who was the Keynote Speaker for the day, was the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Aderonke Baiyeroju. In her speech, she highlighted AMR as a global health threat requiring urgent solutions, and acknowledged the place of the club in creating a strong awareness of antimicrobial resistance.
Other speakers at the event include Professor Victoria Adetunji, Head of Department, Veterinary Public Health, who spoke on “Curbing Antimicrobial Resistance through a One-Health Initiative” and Prof. Babatunde Ogunbusi, who lectured on “Responsible Antibiotic Use in Children and the Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance on Pediatric Healthcare”. Prof. Ogunbosi’s speech explored the role of open markets in the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
There were also talks from Professor Ayodele Jegede, Department of Sociology (Behavioural factors contributing to AMR and its socio-economic impact); Mrs. Oyewole Abidemi, Chief Nursing Officer of Jaja Clinic, who represented the Director, Dr. Ajayi Aderonke, and the Students’ Union President, Aweda Bolaji (Role of youth in curbing AMR: How can members play a pivotal role?).
The Antimicrobial Club, UI, joins a growing network of AMR Clubs across the country.
Ugor Benedict
