AE-FUNAI Scholar Emerges Southeast Coordinator of OWSD Nigeria

In a significant achievement for women in science, Dr. Chioma Anorue of the Department of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, has been elected Southeast Coordinator of the Nigerian chapter of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD).

Her election was officially announced during the 7th Biennial International Conference of OWSD Nigeria, held at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, from July 6 to 10, 2025. The election process was conducted transparently through OpaVote, following a robust and competitive selection.

The conference featured a range of activities including pre-conference workshops, plenary sessions, and scientific presentations, culminating in the elections into leadership positions. Dr. Anorue’s emergence as Southeast Coordinator was hailed as a milestone both for the region and the ongoing pursuit of gender equity in the sciences.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Anorue expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Professor Sunday Elom, for his consistent support in promoting initiatives that uplift women in science. She also applauded the Women in Science, AE-FUNAI chapter, for their strong participation at the conference, describing their presence as instrumental to the event’s success.

“This achievement is not just a personal milestone,” she said, “but a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for promoting women in science.”

Dr. Anorue laid out her vision for the Southeast region under her coordination, pledging to enhance women’s participation in STEM, establish a strong mentorship network, advocate for science education, and work closely with stakeholders to influence policies that drive gender equality. She also emphasized her commitment to amplifying the voices of women scientists at every level of decision-making.

“OWSD has blessed me with a network of beautiful, intelligent, and outstanding women who support and uplift each other,” she noted, urging scientists, academics, and key stakeholders to join her in building a more inclusive and equitable scientific environment.

Reacting to her emergence, Professor Sunday Elom, Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, commended Dr. Anorue for her dedication and leadership.

“Her election is a testament to the academic excellence and leadership capacity we nurture in AE-FUNAI,” he said. “Her passion for empowering women in science aligns with our institutional vision, and we are confident she will make an indelible impact in her new role.”