In celebration of the remarkable achievements of women, Thomas Adewumi University marked its edition of International Women’s Day 2025 with a engaging event centered on the theme "Accelerating Action: Women Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Leadership and Academia." Organized by the Thomas Adewumi Women (TA-WE), the event took place at the university's Virtual Lab, East Campus, bringing together women from various sectors to address barriers, celebrate progress, and chart actionable steps toward achieving gender equity and empowerment.
In her opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Oladipo, emphasized the urgency of accelerating action to bridge the gender equity gap. “As identified by the World Economic Forum, it could take up to five generations to achieve full equity for women. It is imperative that we push harder to bring that timeline closer,” she stated, reaffirming the university’s commitment to empowering women both within TAU and the surrounding Oko-Irese community, a key focus of TA-WE’s initiatives.
Delivering the keynote address, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Professor Chinedum Peace Babalola, highlighted the persistent challenges women face in academia and leadership, pointing out that women hold only 10% of CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies and less than 30% of full professorships in academia. “These glass ceilings persist due to a bias, lack of mentorship, and challenges in work-life balance," she noted, underscoring the need for systemic change and more equitable opportunities for women.
In addressing strategies for overcoming these challenges, Prof. Babalola emphasized the importance of resilience among women in academia and leadership roles, urging them to remain adaptable, take risks, and persist despite adversity. “Be the change you want to see. Support and mentor women in your field, advocate for policy reforms, and challenge gender biases. Together, we can create a future where leadership reflects all voices," she urged.
Following the keynote speech, the event transitioned to an engaging panel discussion on Women in Leadership and Career Growth, where the panelists shared their personal journeys and insights into thriving in male-dominated, while stressing the significance of confidence, work-life balance, and the necessity of strong mentorship networks to promote career advancement.
The event concluded with a health and wellness session, led by Mrs. Victoria Aina. In her presentation, "In No Condition Should a Woman Die Young," she emphasized the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being, especially for women juggling demanding careers and family responsibilities. “Women are often pulled in many directions, but it’s essential that we take time for ourselves to ensure long-term success,” she urged.
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Olori Abosede Olawuyi, the Olori of Oloko of Ire-Irese, who is also a member of the board of trustees for TA-WE. Women from various sectors within the TA-WE community, including representatives from Thomas Adewumi University, Thomas Adewumi Nursery and Primary School, Thomas Adewumi International College, and the Oko-Irese Medical Center, attended the event, demonstrating the collective commitment to women’s advancement within the TAU community.
As TAU continues to lead efforts in promoting gender equity, this event marked a significant step toward breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable and supportive future for women, both within the university and beyond.
