Campus News

Omojasola advocates gender equality

By Abubakar Abdulquadri

The Director of the Centre for Gender Studies, University of Ilorin, Prof. Patricia Folake Omojasola, has advocated gender equality among staff and students as she emphasised equal treatment and opportunities regardless of gender differences.

 Prof. Omojasola made this call last Tuesday (September 30, 2025) while participating in the maiden edition of “Gender Lens” on UNILORIN 89.3 FM, jointly anchored by Miss Bimbo Durojaye and Mrs Damilola Afelumo.

The Centre, a new initiative approved by the University Senate in August, 2024, is aimed at promoting fairness, inclusivity, and equal opportunities. The  Director explained that the Centre’s benefits extend beyond the University community, focusing on research, education, and policies that eliminate gender stereotyping and discrimination.

Prof. Omojasola emphasised that a bias-free environment enables staff and students to work together effectively, and contribute positively to society, stressing that the Centre would ensure that there is fairness and inclusivity for both male and female.

The Director appreciated the support of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, which facilitated the success of the Centre’s grant application that has been found to be crucial for the execution of its programmes.

The Centre is set to be launched on October 15, 2025, with plans to engage the community, promote its vision, and collaborate with stakeholders.

“We hope to introduce a topic in General Studies where 100 or 200-level students can learn about the importance of gender and bias-free decision-making,” she said. “

She also disclosed that the Centre would organise training programmes for students and the community as well as seminars and conferences at national and international levels.”

Furthermore, “We intend to host community outreaches, recognising that impactful advocacy and community engagement are crucial for maximising our impact,” she added.

The don highlighted that the Centre would address gender disparities in tertiary institutions, where both males and females face discrimination in accessing certain professional career opportunities.

Prof. Omojasola also noted that the Centre would offer training for women in politics, women in legislatures and interact deeply with  members of the Ilorin community and beyond as well as offer academic and professional postgraduate courses.