UNILORIN Female Lecturers Urged to Balance Academic and Domestic Duties
Female lecturers at the University of Ilorin are advised to effectively balance their academic and domestic responsibilities to achieve success in both areas.
Mary Nwaeze 
Female lecturers at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) have been advised to effectively balance their academic responsibilities with domestic duties to thrive in both areas. This guidance was provided by several distinguished female faculty members who shared their experiences and strategies in an interview with the UNILORIN Bulletin.
Prof. Bolanle Elizabeth Arokoyo from the Department of Linguistics emphasized the challenge of managing academic and personal life. “Balancing academic responsibilities with personal life is indeed a challenge,” she noted. “It can sometimes feel overwhelming between teaching, research, publishing, and administrative duties. However, setting clear priorities and boundaries is crucial.” Prof. Arokoyo advocates for time management and delegation to avoid burnout and maintain balance.
Dr. Nusirat Aderinsola Sadiku of the Department of Forest Resources Management highlighted the delicate balance women must maintain between their professional and domestic roles. “The balance is delicate and requires constant adjustment,” she said, stressing the importance of being time-conscious and learning to delegate tasks.
Dr. Halimah Funmilayo Babamale, a lecturer in the Department of Industrial Chemistry, encouraged female academics to seek their spouses' understanding to better focus on their careers. She also recommended that the University prioritize on-campus accommodation for female staff to alleviate some of the challenges of balancing work and family.
Dr. Mansurat Isiaka, a former Coordinator of the Department of Criminology and Security Studies, suggested employing house help and establishing crèches on campus to support working mothers.
Dr. Nimota Jibola Kadir Abdullahi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Management, emphasized the importance of organization and setting realistic goals. “Creating harmony between a successful career and a fulfilling home is achievable through careful planning and implementation,” she said.
These insights reflect the evolving nature of academic life and the need for supportive measures to help female lecturers succeed both professionally and personally.
