The Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Environmental Studies, Professor Chidi Uhuegbu, has charged members of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Godfrey Okoye University Branch, to actively seek national and international collaborations as a pathway to advancing scientific research and innovation.
Professor Uhuegbu made this call while delivering an address at a seminar organised by the OWSD GOUNI Branch, held at the ICT Hall, Thinker’s Corner Campus, Enugu. He emphasized the importance of academic, intellectual, and leadership succession, noting that nurturing younger generations of scientists is essential for sustainable institutional growth.
Speaking as the keynote speaker, Professor Ebele Joy Ikekpeazu, who delivered a lecture on the theme “Strengthening Academic Dignity through Impactful and Sustainable Research Partnership,” explained that researchers must align their grant proposals and collaborative projects with real societal needs and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She added that understanding cultural and institutional differences, leveraging technology, and prioritising partners’ goals are critical strategies for securing grants and building strong collaborations.
In an interview, the convener of the seminar, Dr. Chidinma Okafor, stated that the programme was designed to keep members informed about opportunities and strategies for securing international collaborations and fostering partnerships that advance scientific knowledge. She noted that since its establishment in 2022, the OWSD GOUNI Branch has continued to grow in membership and has rendered several social and community-oriented services within the university and beyond.
The seminar also featured the emergence of new executives for the organisation:
Dr. Flora Ogbuke-Omeje – Coordinator
Mrs. Adaeze Eze – Vice Coordinator
Dr. Favor Udoeyop – Secretary
Dr. Joy Anosike – Financial Secretary/Treasurer
In her acceptance speech, the new Coordinator, Dr. Flora Ogbuke-Omeje, thanked members for the confidence reposed in her and pledged to work closely with the executive and general membership to promote the growth and objectives of the organisation.
Dr. Claribel Okorie of the College of Medicine, Godfrey Okoye University, commended the convener for organising an impactful seminar, stressing that the event highlighted the importance of unity and collective effort in pursuing national and international collaborations and research grants. She expressed delight at the growing number of women in science and noted that the success of the organisation would inspire more girls and women to embrace careers in science.
Godfrey Okoye University remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote research excellence, innovation, and the empowerment of women in science.
