KOMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dozie Lauds Women In Science; Makes Case For Gender Equality

The Vice-Chancellor, Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University Ideato, Professor Ikechukwu Dozie has extolled members of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World, (OWSD), for finding it worthy to inaugurate its local chapter in the University, marking the first of its kind since he assumed office as Vice-Chancellor.

While receiving the Leadership of the Organisation on April 7, 2022, who were on a courtesy visit to his office, the Vice-Chancellor said women play a very important role in the society.

He made reference to the quote by Margaret Thatcher, former British Prime Minister,  which says: “If you want something said, you ask a man. If you want something done, you ask a woman”. VC said as long as there are lots of cultural differences and inequalities hindering women from attaining full potentials, there is need to work collectively as Government on one hand and as stakeholders on the other hand for women to achieve their full potentials, especially in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The KOMU Chief Executive added that, KO Mbadiwe University being gender sensitive in its policy appointed women into key positions like; University Librarian, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Acting Director General Studies, Admissions Officer, Student Affairs officer, and other important positions. The Vice-Chancellor who appealed to his visitors to help in projecting the good image of the University also informed them that the University Admission is currently ongoing.

The leader of OWSD delegation, Dr. Nkeiru Kamalu earlier said they were at the Vice-Chancellor’s office to inform him of the inauguration of the OWSD, KOMU Chapter and to thank him for his support to the Organisation. At the Senate Chambers where the ceremony took place thereafter, the Vice-Chancellor was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aloy Onyeka who was also the Chairman of the occasion.

The Chief Guest of Honour, Dr. Mrs C. P Dozie, wife of the Vice-Chancellor and Acting Director of the Directorate of General Studies, read out the VC’s Address. The high point of the occasion was the decoration of the Vice-Chancellor as SCIENCE AMBASSADOR by ORGANISATION FOR WOMEN IN SCIENCE FOR DEVELOPING WORLD, OWSD.

The Award, which was received by Dr. C. P Dozie on her husband’s behalf was presented by OWSD National President, Professor Olanyika Ibiwumi Nwachukwu. Prof. Nwachukwu was represented by the South-east OWSD President, Professor Nkeiru Orji.

…Seeks Gender Equality

In another development,

Vice Chancellor  Dozie has made a case for gender equality and more inclusion of women in national affairs. He made this call at the inauguration ceremony of the Standup for Women Society (SWS) Nigeria held recently at Haven Suites, World Bank Housing Estate, Owerri.

Prof. Dozie who was represented at the occasion by the Acting Director of General Studies of the University, Dr Mrs Patricia Chinomso Dozie, stated in his opening remarks, that the theme of the programme, “Women: Bridge Builders”, was timely taking into consideration the recent rejection of about five gender equality bills that sought to alter the Constitution by the National Assembly.

He pointed out that the decision of the National Assembly to reject the gender equality bills engendered criticisms and even protests by women as well as civil society groups. Stressing that women are multi-talented and indispensable elements who require both the support of the society and government to actualize their individual dreams.

Furthermore, he encouraged women to be bold and never allow the multifaceted and socially induced limitations evident around them to hold them back from succeeding in their careers, callings and natural roles as mothers and wives. Also, he advised women to look up to God and invest more time in developing themselves by reading inspirational literatures. In addition, he counselled them to join social groups such as the Standup for Women Society, that can bring out the best in them.

The Vice Chancellor also called on both men and women to live harmoniously, respecting individual roles and supporting one another to achieve full potentials in life. He called on the National Assembly to reconsider passing the five  gender equality bills into law.

He emphasized that it will further strengthen the roles of women as bridge builders in the society and the country at large.