The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Ibadan Branch, gathered once again at the historic Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 for its 2025 End-of-Year Picnic & Retreat.

It is a warm and vibrant event designed to celebrate women scientists, reflect on the year’s accomplishments, and foster deeper bonds among female researchers across disciplines.

The retreat, held annually, serves as both a celebratory close to the year and a space for women in science to unwind, connect, and re-energize for the year ahead. Though this year’s event did not carry a formal theme, it was filled with the familiar spirit of fellowship, laughter, music, good food, and shared inspiration that has come to characterize OWSD Ibadan gatherings.

The OWSD Ibadan Coordinator, Prof. Aina O. Adeogun, expressed joy at seeing members come together to celebrate their collective strength and achievements despite the demanding nature of their professional and personal lives.

Speaking at the event, she said: “This is another opportunity to relax and enjoy, to look back at what we have done this year and thank God for His grace. We are here to celebrate unity. As women, we juggle so much—family, children, husbands, work—and many times we forget to care for ourselves. Today, we gather to celebrate ourselves.”

Prof. Adeogun also highlighted the year’s activities, noting that OWSD Ibadan continued to advance its mission by supporting women scientists through trainings, mentorship, outreach to schools, and collaborative research engagements.

The 2025 retreat welcomed a distinguished lineup of accomplished women in academia and research. Among those in attendance were: Prof. Antonia Taye Simbine; Prof. Aderonke Baiyeroju; Dr. Mercy Iroaganachi; Prof. Janice Olawoye; Prof. Oyedunni Arulogun; Prof. Olufunke Eunice Ola-Davies; Dr. Folusho Agunlana…and several others who have contributed remarkably to knowledge, innovation, and community development.

Guests enjoyed a lively evening filled with heartfelt conversations, networking, fine meals, and cheerful dancing. Members shared warm sentiments, describing the retreat as an essential space for renewal and sisterhood.

One attendee told CEOAFRICA: “We work all year, both at home and in the office. It is refreshing to have a day like this to unwind and network. OWSD continues to give us a sense of belonging and support.”

Another participant added: “The beauty of OWSD is collaboration. When we come together, we exchange ideas that impact our homes, our institutions, and society at large.”

The evening also served as a moment of appreciation for the coordinators and committees whose efforts ensured the retreat was a success. Many members described Prof. Adeogun as an energetic, exceptional leader who continues to strengthen the organization.

“I am delighted to be here. Prof. Adeogun is a bundle of energy—a woman in ten women. We should continue having gatherings like this every year,” one attendee remarked with excitement.

Beyond the fun, the retreat reaffirmed OWSD Ibadan’s commitment to empowering women in scientific careers, enhancing visibility for women researchers, and inspiring younger generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and innovation.

As the event drew to a close, members expressed gratitude for a fulfilling year and looked forward to 2026 with optimism, renewed friendship, and a stronger drive to advance women’s contributions to science and national development.