OWSD GOUNI Branch Advocates Global Partnerships to Advance Women in Science

The Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Environmental Studies, Godfrey Okoye University, Prof. Chidi Uhuegbu, has urged members of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Godfrey Okoye University Branch, to pursue national and international collaborations to enhance scientific research and innovation.

Prof. Uhuegbu made the call while addressing participants at a seminar organised by the OWSD GOUNI Branch at the ICT Hall, Thinker’s Corner Campus, Enugu. He stressed the need for academic, intellectual, and leadership succession, noting that mentoring younger scientists is vital for sustainable institutional development.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Prof. Ebele Joy Ikekpeazu spoke on the theme, “Strengthening Academic Dignity through Impactful and Sustainable Research Partnership.” She emphasized that researchers must align grant proposals and collaborative initiatives with societal needs and the Sustainable Development Goals. She identified cultural and institutional understanding, effective use of technology, and prioritisation of partners’ objectives as key strategies for securing research grants and sustaining collaborations.

The convener of the seminar, Dr. Chidinma Okafor, explained that the programme was aimed at equipping members with knowledge on opportunities and strategies for international collaboration and partnership building. She noted that since its establishment in 2022, the OWSD GOUNI Branch has experienced steady growth in membership and has carried out several community-focused initiatives within and outside the university.

The seminar also witnessed the emergence of new executives of the organisation, with Dr. Flora Ogbuke-Omeje elected as Coordinator, Mrs. Adaeze Eze as Vice Coordinator, Dr. Favor Udoeyop as Secretary, and Dr. Joy Anosike as Financial Secretary and Treasurer.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Ogbuke-Omeje expressed appreciation to members for the trust placed in her leadership and pledged to work collaboratively with the executive and members to advance the goals of the organisation.

Dr. Claribel Okorie of the College of Medicine, Godfrey Okoye University, commended the convener for organising the seminar, describing it as timely and impactful. She noted that the programme underscored the importance of unity and collective effort in securing research grants and international partnerships, adding that the growing presence of women in science would inspire more girls and women to pursue scientific careers.