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IARSAF holds the maiden edition of its journal club for 2020

On 28 February, the International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) of IITA held the maiden meeting of its journal club for 2020. The purpose of the meeting was to help participants gain new knowledge in various scientific fields through research-paper review and build their communication and presentation skills.

The Head Administration, IITA Western Africa Hub, Sylvia Oyinlola initiated the IARSAF journal club in 2015. The meeting takes place on the last Friday of every month, during which research scholars make constructive reviews of published scientific papers, looking at their strengths and weaknesses and concluding on future directions for the research.

The authors of the papers reviewed and professionals in the field were present to clarify information on their research. They were Christian Fatokun, IITA Legume Geneticist/Breeder; Oyatomi Olaniyi, Seedbank Manager; Paterne Agre, Molecular Breeder; and Taofeek Adegboyega, Research Fellow.

The meeting resulted in increased knowledge of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), as these were the crops discussed. Many questions were asked and valuable contributions made. Faith Bankole, IARSAF General Secretary, said “this is the best journal club I have ever attended.”

Giving closing remarks, Fatokun mentioned that the meeting was an opportunity to learn from younger ones. “If the first is as good as this, I believe others will be better,” he said. Fatokun advised IARSAF members to stay focused and consistent because the future is bright.