Pioneers of Education : The First Female Students of University of Ibadan in 1948

In a heartwarming tribute to the trailblazers of education and gender equality, we take a journey back in time to celebrate the distinguished alumnae of University College Ibadan, now known as the University of Ibadan. These remarkable women, revered as idols and affectionately hailed as "slay queens," made indelible contributions to the status and education of Nigeria.

In a captivating snapshot taken on their graduation day in 1953, these pioneering women stand as a testament to their indelible legacy. As we journey from left to right, let's introduce you to the trailblazing first female students of the University of Ibadan:

1. Florence Gabrielle Abio̩la Adeniran (91 years): Florence Gabrielle Abio̩la Adeniran, an LRCP (Lond.), MRCS (Eng), MPH (Mich), is a distinguished Nigerian surgeon and medical practitioner. Born in October 1930, she holds the honor of being the first woman to earn a medical degree in Nigeria from the University of Ibadan. In 1986, she shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first female director of the Nigerian Health Management Board. Her personal life is equally impressive, being married to barrister and author Adedapo̩ Adeniran, with whom she shares two children. Dr. Adeniran retired from her medical service in 1990, leaving behind a trail of remarkable accomplishments.

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2. Oluso̩lape Folaşade Ifaturoti (91 years): Oluso̩lape Folaşade Ifaturoti, a noble woman of exceptional virtue and a compassionate mother, attended Queens College, Lagos. She embarked on her academic journey early, gaining admission to University College Ibadan (UCI) at the tender age of 19, where she began making her mark on history.

3. Grace Awe̩ni Alele-Williams (89 years): Born in 1932, Grace Awe̩ni Alele-Williams was a distinguished professor of mathematics education. Her illustrious career included the distinction of becoming the first female vice-chancellor in Nigeria, serving at the University of Benin. She too has University College Ibadan in her educational history, earning a doctorate degree from the University of Chicago in 1963, thereby becoming the first woman in Nigeria to achieve this milestone. Her academic journey came full circle when she returned to Nigeria to engage in postdoctoral work at the University of Ibadan before joining the University of Lagos in 1965.

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4. Adetowun O̩mo̩lara Oguns̩e̩ye̩ (95 years): Born in December 1926 in Benin City, Edo State, Adetowun O̩mo̩lara Oguns̩e̩ye̩ is a trailblazer in her own right. She is celebrated as the first female professor in Nigeria and the first professor of Library and Information Service. Her pursuit of education took her to Cambridge University, where she earned a degree, making her the first Nigerian woman to achieve this distinction. A passionate advocate for women's social rights, she was granted a scholarship to study geography at Newnham College, University of Cambridge, in 1973.

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These remarkable women shattered stereotypes and societal norms, proving that the female child is not limited to the kitchen alone. Their enduring legacy is a testament to their resilience, determination, and their profound impact on making Nigeria proud. Their accomplishments continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations, ensuring that their names and achievements will forever be celebrated.