By Editor
In a significant milestone for gender representation and academic leadership in Nigeria, Professor Jacinta Opara has been appointed as the second substantive Vice Chancellor of Dominican University, Ibadan. Her appointment, announced by Chief Anthony Idigbe (SAN), Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, is a testament to her extensive expertise, leadership skills, and unwavering commitment to higher education. This historic appointment is poised to usher in an era of innovation and academic excellence at the institution.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The appointment of Prof Opara followed a stringent recruitment exercise conducted by a professional recruiting firm and top-tier academics. This process, in line with global best practices in headhunting for strategic positions in higher education, ensured that only the most qualified candidates were considered. The Board of Trustees, exercising its powers conferred by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Universities Act, endorsed the recommendation of the Joint Governing Council, Senate, and Search/Selection Team.
Historic and Prestigious Appointment
Prof Opara’s appointment is not just historic but also a beacon of progress in Nigerian academia. She becomes the first female Vice Chancellor of Dominican University and the 25th woman to hold the prestigious role of Vice Chancellor in Nigerian history. Her role as Vice Chancellor places her at the helm of academic and administrative affairs, making her the nerve center of activities ranging from protocol and external relations to the coordination of various internal organs. Reporting directly to the Governing Council, Prof Opara’s leadership is expected to drive the university towards greater heights.
Dominican University: A Legacy of Excellence
Dominican University, Ibadan, formerly known as the Dominican Institute, holds the distinction of being the first university of the Order of Preachers on the African continent. The Order of Preachers, popularly called the Dominican Order, was founded by Spanish priest Dominic de Guzman in 1216. The university’s rich history dates back to 1951 when three members of the Order arrived in Nigeria from Chicago to establish the foundation of the Order in the country. The institution has since evolved, receiving its university license from the Federal Government of Nigeria on November 22, 2016. It is accredited and recognized by the National Universities Commission.
Prof Opara’s Vision and Commitment
As the Vice Chancellor, Prof Opara is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment and enhancing community engagement. Her vision for Dominican University is to promote a vibrant educational community where staff, students, and stakeholders collaborate to achieve academic excellence and serve God. Her tenure is expected to bring new opportunities for partnerships, research funding, international collaborations, and a strong emphasis on community outreach.
An Illustrious Career and Academic Journey
Born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in 1976, Prof Jacinta A. Opara is a leading African environmental scholar, scientist, educator, health researcher, consultant, and development activist. She holds degrees from several prestigious institutions, including the University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, University of Granada, Central University of Nicaragua, Oslo Metropolitan University, Universidad Catolica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), and University of Chalco-Mexico.
Prof Opara’s career began in 1997 as a Science Teacher (Biology) at the College of the Immaculate Conception (CIC), Enugu, under the National Youth Service Corps. She later worked as a Program Officer at the Nigerian Gender Action Network and as a Research Fellow at the Afro-Euro Centre for Development Studies in Accra, Ghana. Over the past 25 years, she has held various teaching, research, and consulting positions across Africa, America, Europe, and Asia.
Leadership and Administrative Expertise
Prof Opara’s administrative experience in higher education is both broad and deep. She has served in various capacities, including Head of Department, Dean, Director, and Deputy Vice Chancellor, at numerous institutions. Her familiarity with the local and international higher education landscape, coupled with her ability to work harmoniously with people from different cultures, positions her as a transformative leader.
Contributions to Higher Education and Community Development
Prof Opara is a founding Co-Executive Director of the Center for Environment and Community Development and serves on the Board/Governing Council of several institutions, including Metropolitan International University, Mediterranean Center for Social and Educational Research, African Institute of Management, Technology and Development Studies, and Association of Women Educationists. Her extensive network of contacts can be leveraged to develop Dominican University further.
Recognitions and Fellowships
Prof Opara’s achievements have earned her numerous recognitions and fellowships. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, African Scientific Institute, Board of Quality Standards, Institute of Chartered Professionals, West African Postgraduate College of Environmental Health, and Chartered Institute of Administration. She has also received 23 awards, fellowships, and grants, including the Erasmus Mundus of the European Commission and the prestigious IATEL Award for Academic Excellence.
Research and Scholarly Contributions
Prof Opara has supervised several PhD and Masters students to completion, demonstrating her leadership, mentorship, and research capabilities. She has more than 200 publications, including over 130 academic journal articles and 15 books. Her editorial roles in various international journals further underscore her scholarly impact.
International Engagements and Advocacy
Prof Opara’s international engagements include participation in numerous UN and global conferences on gender, environment, health, human rights, peace, and security. She is a member of several international organizations, such as the African Universities’ Research Group on Health and Environment, IUCN Commission on Environmental Law, Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World, and International Association for Scientific Knowledge.
A Devout Leader with a Global Perspective
A devout Christian of Catholic faith, Prof Opara speaks English and Spanish and has visited over 30 countries. Her global perspective and extensive experience make her a well-rounded leader equipped to steer Dominican University towards academic and administrative excellence.
Conclusion
The appointment of Prof Jacinta Opara as Vice Chancellor of Dominican University marks a significant milestone in the institution’s history and the broader landscape of Nigerian higher education. Her leadership is expected to drive innovation, academic excellence, and community engagement, positioning Dominican University as a leading institution in Nigeria and beyond. With her proven track record, commitment to student success, and vision for a vibrant educational community, Prof Opara is poised to make a lasting impact on the university and the broader academic community.
