Lead City University (LCU), Ibadan, in partnership with the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), is set to empower women, especially female scientists and researchers, to shore up their capacity and contributions to global scientific progress.

Speaking at the inauguration of OWSD’s LCU branch, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, said a successful grant writing is not merely an administrative skill, but a gateway to opportunities to lead, innovate, and contribute.

The event, held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan (UI), was themed: ‘Breaking barriers: Empowering women in science through successful grant writing’.

Adeyemo also reassured that the university’s commitment to promoting gender equity and research that would make a difference. Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Prof. Olusola Ladokun, urged more women to embrace science and research.

Ladokun assured that the body would bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics [STEM], while also driving sustainable development through women in leadership positions and inspiring the next generation.

“The inauguration is not just a ceremony; it is a declaration of intent. We are here to bridge the gender gap in STEM, drive sustainable development through women’s leadership, and inspire the next generation,” Ladokun stated. She noted that the group will provide scholarships, networking, and visibility for women researchers, while also championing policies that will ensure equal access to labs, funding, and leadership roles.

Ladokun said: “Science and technology are the engines of progress. Yet, when women are excluded, solutions to challenges like climate change, health disparities, and food security remain incomplete. We are committed to mentorship programmes, pairing students with trailblazing women in STEM, showcasing science as a vibrant, inclusive career, as well as giving out research grants to ensure female scholars publish, patent, and prosper.” Buy vitamins and supplements

In her remarks, the Southwest Coordinator of the group, Prof. Oluwatoyin Olasehinde, urged members to be more proactive in their scientific research fields and support female science students.

Also speaking, the Deputy Director-General of the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research, Prof. Rosemary Audu, pointed out that researchers, especially women, must be focused and committed to be successful.

Audu, who was the guest speaker, noted that intending researchers must build a competitive profile, submit proposals for review and have a budgeted fund for the project to be successful.