Prof Francisca Bassey, the substantive VC of University of Cross River State (UNICROSS)
Professor Francisca Bassey, the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), is widely recognised as a transformational academic leader and distinguished scholar. Born in Calabar to Efik parents, she earned a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Lagos. She later completed an EMBA, MSc, and PhD in Organic Chemistry under the Fulbright Scholarship, jointly supervised by the University of Calabar and the University of Georgia, USA. Her doctoral research was nominated for the Nigerian Universities Doctoral Thesis Award Scheme (NUDTAS).
Prof. Bassey has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications with more than 1,300 citations, and has pioneered Nigeria’s Food Chemistry programme. She has introduced groundbreaking academic reforms, including biometric attendance verification, computer-based testing, virtual lectures, and electronic marking systems, transforming transparency and efficiency at her previous institutions.
A Fellow of the Fulbright Alumni Association and Chartered Chemist, she has held multiple leadership roles, including Director of the Centre for General Studies and Director of Pre-Degree programmes. She also established the US Educational Advisory Centre, expanding scholarship and leadership opportunities for youths across Nigeria’s South-South states.
Under her leadership at UNICROSS, infrastructural renewal, ICT-driven reforms, and improved student welfare have strengthened institutional efficiency, international collaboration, and a culture of innovation.
Beyond academia, she is a UN Peace Ambassador, member of the Obong of Calabar Executive Forum, and founder of the Empower 360 Humanity Initiative.
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