Dr Chioma Anorue of the Department of Biology at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) has been elected Southeast Coordinator of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Nigeria chapter. Her election was announced at the 7th Biennial International Conference of OWSD, held at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, from July 6 to 10, 2025.
The conference, which featured a lineup of pre-conference workshops, plenary sessions, and scientific presentations, culminated in elections for various leadership positions, with Dr Anorue’s election being hailed as a significant win for the Southeast region and for the cause of advancing gender equity in the sciences.
While delivering her acceptance speech, Dr Anorue expressed profound gratitude to the Vice–Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Prof. Sunday Elom, for his unwavering support in promoting platforms that elevate women scientists. She also commended the Women in Science, AEFUNAI chapter, for attending the conference en masse and contributing to its success, adding that the achievement was not just a personal milestone but a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for promoting women in science.
She outlined a clear and ambitious vision that includes increasing women’s participation in STEM fields, building a strong network of women scientists through mentorship and support, working relentlessly to promote STEM education and career opportunities for women, and collaborating with key stakeholders to shape policies that advance gender equality in science. She equally pledged to promote STEM education, foster career development opportunities for women, and ensure that the voices and concerns of women scientists are represented at all levels.
“OWSD has blessed me with a network of beautiful, intelligent, and outstanding women who support and uplift each other’’ she said, calling on her fellow scientists, academics, and stakeholders to join her in building a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.
While commending Dr Anorue on her emergence as the Southeast Coordinator of OWSD, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Elom, noted that her election was a testament to the academic excellence and leadership capacity we nurture in AE-FUNAI. ”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,” the Vice-Chancellor concluded.
