In June 2025, TIHRAD played a significant role in advancing scientific dialogue and digital innovation in microbiology by co-convening the Second Annual Microbial Sciences Conference at Kwara State University (KWASU). Held at the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences Auditorium Hall in Malete, the conference brought together more than 500 participants from institutions such as KWASU, the University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan, Al-Hikmah University, Kwara State Polytechnic, Landmark University, and other research institutions across the region.

The event opened with ceremonial activities, institutional goodwill messages, and the ambassadorial address delivered by Yusuf Amuda Tajudeen, ASM Young Ambassador to Nigeria and Director of Research, Innovation, and Public Health Programs at TIHRAD. In his remarks, he emphasized the mission of the American Society for Microbiology, the strategic importance of integrating modern technologies into microbial sciences, and the need for African students to engage in global scientific communities. He highlighted the rapidly evolving landscape of microbial research, where tools such as digital diagnostics, bioinformatics, computational biology, and advanced molecular methods are reshaping public health and biomedical science.

The conference also featured cultural presentations by microbiology students, including a performance focused on antimicrobial resistance awareness. Expert presenters from KWASU, the University of Ilorin, Al-Hikmah University, and other institutions delivered lectures on innovative technologies and methods relevant to microbial sciences in the digital age. Discussions spanned digital laboratory tools, molecular diagnostics, artificial intelligence applications, microbial surveillance systems, and the emerging role of computational workflows in tracking infectious diseases.

Participant engagement remained strong throughout the event, especially during the interactive Q&A session, where students and early-career scientists had the opportunity to engage directly with researchers and faculty members. The conference concluded with closing remarks from faculty leadership and student representatives, reinforcing the importance of sustained collaboration and technological advancement in shaping the future of microbiology in Africa.

TIHRAD’s involvement significantly enriched the academic and scientific depth of the conference, contributing to the strengthening of institutional networks and empowering students with exposure to cutting-edge scientific perspectives. Through this engagement, TIHRAD continued to demonstrate its commitment to advancing research excellence, innovation, and scientific capacity on the continent.