COOU Appoints Prof. Sylvia Ifeyinwa Okonkwo as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development and Uli Campus Affairs

Professor Sylvia Ifeyinwa Okonkwo (née Ucheagwu) has been elected Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development and Uli Campus Affairs at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).

Born on July 21, 1972, in Azia, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, she has distinguished herself through leadership, scholarship, and service to humanity.

A scholar of Analytical Chemistry, Prof. Okonkwo holds a B.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry, a Postgraduate Diploma and M.Sc. in Chemical Technology from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and a Ph.D. from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. She joined COOU in 2006 and was promoted to Professor of Chemistry in 2017. Over the years, she has served as Head of Department, Director of SIWES, and Acting Dean of Student Affairs, leaving a legacy of excellence in each role.

Prof. Okonkwo is widely recognized for her pioneering research integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern nanotechnology, focusing on nanoparticle synthesis for drug delivery and disease therapy. Her work in phyto-nanomedicine and green chemistry has earned international acclaim, with presentations across Africa and beyond. She has supervised over a hundred undergraduate and postgraduate students, many of whom now occupy prominent positions globally.

Beyond her scientific contributions, she is a devout Christian and a Lady of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI), committed to faith, community service, and youth empowerment. She has held leadership roles in ASUU, the Chemical Society of Nigeria, and the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), reflecting her dedication to academic and professional advancement.

Prof. Okonkwo is married to Prince Charles Okonkwo of Enugwu-Ukwu, and they are blessed with a family grounded in love and faith. Her election as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development and Uli Campus Affairs, marks a continuation of her inspiring journey of intellect, service, and commitment to COOU’s growth.