The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) was founded in 1987 and operates as a program unit of UNESCO. With its headquarters at The World Academy of Science (TWAS) in Trieste, Italy, OWSD is the first international forum that unites women scientists and researchers from both developed and developing countries to promote women's representation and leadership in STEM fields.OWSD International consists of 57 National Chapters dedicated to supporting women scientists from the Global South through events, networking, and leadership development.OWSD Nigeria, established in 2010 with headquarters at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, is one of these national chapters with over 2,000 female members. It includes regional sub-chapters and branches across the country, among which the OWSD Ibadan Branch stands out as a vibrant hub for female researchers.
OWSD Nigeria is the Nigerian National Chapter of OWSD International with a membership strength of over 2000 female scientists and allied researchers. She was established in 2010 with the headquarters at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. OWSD Nigeria has several regional chapters and branches across the country. The chapter organizes various activities, including seminars, workshops, and conferences that align with the objectives of OWSD International.
OWSD Ibadan Branch is one of the prominent branches of OWSD Nigeria and OWSD Southwest whose membership comprises of over 400 female researchers from University of Ibadan, College of Medicine/University College Hospital, Ibadan, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), The Polytechnic Ibadan, National Center for Genetic Research and Training (NACGRAB), Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAH&PT), Institute of Agricultural Research & Training (IAR&T), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Dominican University, International School Ibadan (ISI) and the Federal College of Education, Oyo amongst others.
Our goal is to foster collaboration amongst women in universities and allied institutions towards ensuring research activities focused on societal gains. Through our numerous activities since inception in 2017, we have increased the participation of women researchers as evidenced by the positive feedback on greater women participation in research and leadership from respective member institutions. By mentoring the Girl-Child in High Schools and encouraging them to embrace careers in research, we have improved participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and allied research in realization of the mission of OWSD International.
Over 30 secondary schools in Ibadan have benefitted from our programs since inception and we have extended our community engagement programs to primary schools and informal sectors of our communities because we realize that the right information during the formative years of the Girl-Child goes a long way in building confidence towards ensuring STEM advancement especially for the Girl-Child.
OWSD Ibadan Branch office is located at 33-35 Egbogah Building, Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan. Our objectives align with the OWSD International as follows:
- Increase the participation of women in scientific, technological and allied research, teaching and leadership.
- Promote collaboration and communication among women researchers in Ibadan, Nigeria and with the international scientific community.
- Increase access of women to the socio-economic benefits of science, technology and allied research.
- Promote women's participation and increase understanding of the role of science, technology and allied research in supporting women's development activities.
Adapted from the 'OWSD International Statutes and Rules of Procedure', approved June 29, 2010.
The uniqueness of OWSD Ibadan is showcased by the special recognition of our retired female researchers who attained the peak of their careers at different institutions. These highly revered female researchers are "OWSD Ibadan Life Members" and since their preferment, they have played very commendable roles in our mentoring initiatives for mid and early career members of OWSD Ibadan branch. Their unique path towards breaking the glass ceiling and numerous achievements continue to inspire us all. While appreciating all members, we welcome new members as we continue to provide a robust platform for career advancement, networking and collaboration for women at different stages in their career. OWSD Ibadan Branch StructureOWSD Ibadan Branch comprises of over 400 female researchers from University of Ibadan, College of Medicine/University College Hospital, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), The Polytechnic Ibadan, National Center for Genetic Research and Training (NACGRAB), Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAHPT), Institute of Agricultural Research & Training (IAR&T), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Dominican University, International School Ibadan (ISI) and the Federal College of Education, Oyo amongst others. The Branch Coordinator is Prof Aina O. Adeogun and together with the Executive Committee and the dedication of past Coordinators, OWSD Ibadan has grown in leaps and bounds.Working TeamThe Ibadan Branch is managed by a dedicated team of Executive, Welfare, Program planning, Research and Technical committees, who oversee programs, mentorship initiatives, and research collaborations. Our leadership includes senior, mid and early-career researchers who ensure the smooth operation of the organization.
Executive Committee Structure
Prof Aina O. Adeogun FAS - Coordinator
Prof Funmilola Ajani - Immediate Past Coordinator
Dr Foluso Agulanna - Vice Coordinator
Dr Oluyemi Adetoyi - Secretary
Dr Mabel Idika - Assistant Secretary
Dr Bola Ibe - Financial Secretary
Dr Tolulope Gbadamosi - Public Relations Officer
Dr Olubunmi Adejoh - Welfare Secretary
Dr Bukola Ochei - Legal Adviser
Dr Amarachi Izuchukwu - Postgraduate Representative/Technical Officer
Mrs Bose Omorogbe - Postgraduate Representative
Dr Osereime Adah - Technical Officer
Unit Representatives
Dr Bose Orimadegun - College of Medicine, UI
Dr Blessing Nwadike - Faculty of Science, UI
Dr Bolarinwa - Faculty of Technology, UI
Dr Edidiong Ukoh - Faculty of Education, UI
Dr Olufunke Adegoke - Faculty of The Social Sciences, UI
Dr Funmilayo Adebiyi - Faculty of Agriculture, UI
Dr Oyinlola Fasoro - Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, UI
Dr Adetolase Bakre - Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UI
Dr Adedotun Afolayan - National Center for Genetic Research and Training, Ibadan Dr Yetunde Oladokun - Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan
Dr Kemi Shokalu - National Horticultural Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan
Dr Adetoun Oyelude/ Mrs Modupe Oluwabiyi - Library, UI Mrs Adejumoke Banjo - Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan
Mrs Mojisola Siyanbola - The Polytechnic Ibadan
Dr. Omolara Ojezele - Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Ibadan
Dr Bola Oni - Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, Ibadan
Dr Mojirayo Durowaye - Faculty of Pharmacy, UI
Dr. Juliet Shenge - Dominican University, Ibadan Prof Ruth Adio-Moses - Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies, UI
Dr Omobolaji Obisesan - Institute of Agricultural Research & Training, Ibadan
Mrs Habeebat Titilola - International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Ibadan
Dr. Chimdinma Jeremiah - International School, Ibadan
National and Regional Chair
Prof. Folashde M. Olajuyigbe - National Chairperson
Prof Olayinka I. Nwachukwu - Immediate Past National Chairperson
Prof Adenike O. Olaseinde - Southwest Coordinator
Conference Proceedings
OWSD Ibadan actively organizes and contributes to conferences, seminars and webinars that showcase the scientific contributions of female researchers. Our conference proceedings feature cutting-edge research, keynote speeches, and collaborations from our esteemed members and partners.Webinars and SeminarsWe host monthly webinars focusing on STEM advancements, leadership, mentoring and women's participation in research and communication. These webinars and seminars serve as platforms for knowledge exchange and professional networking.
Get Involved
Join us in our mission to promote women's engagement in science and allied research! Whether as a mentor, volunteer, or partner, there are many ways to support our initiatives and contribute to women's development in STEM.MembershipOWSD Ibadan welcomes female researchers, scientists, and professionals interested in research, science and technology, policy communication and stakeholder engagement. Membership provides access to networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and career development workshops and social supportPatrons/ Life MembersWe recognize our numerous Patrons (link will be provided to navigate to patrons names) who provide support to OWSD Ibadan activities and honor distinguished female researchers who have reached the peak of their careers. These OWSD Ibadan Life Members (link for members) play a crucial role in mentoring younger researchers and guiding the next generation of female researchers.
Activities
OWSD Ibadan engages in various activities, including:
• Mentoring Programs: Supporting young women in STEM from high school through postgraduate to early and mid-career levels.
• Workshops & Training: Capacity-building sessions in research methodologies, leadership, and career advancement.
• Community Engagement: Outreach programs to encourage girls' participation in STEM fields and other Public health Awareness Programs
• Collaborations: Partnering with universities, research institutions, and global organizations for knowledge exchange.
• End-of-Year Retreat (Picnic/ Luncheon): A moment to relax, network and refresh from the numerous research activities in a serene environment. Active collaboration initiatives have originated from these retreats.