For three days, the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State literally stood still in honour of renowned academic Icon and gender expert, Prof. Olabisi Idowu Aina who took a bow out of active service as she clocked 70.
For a distinguished scholar whose towering contributions to knowledge especially profoundly shaping gender research and policies in Nigeria, is legendary, it was a honour well deserved.
A line up of events which commenced on Wednesday November 20, 2024 through Friday November 22, witnessed a large turnout of stakeholders of the Ivory Tower across Nigeria paying glowing tributes to a woman who has devoted nearly 40 years of academic and community service to the nation.
First was a Roundtable on Gender Issues and Sustainable Development in Nigeria organized by the Department of Sociology and Antropology, Communication and Media Studies at the University campus.
That roundtable event witnessed three presentations including An Insight into Causes, Consequences and Prevention of SGBV, Work Life Balance, and the Role of the University’s Center for Gender Studies in Sustainable Development.
Thursday November 21, 2024 was dedicated to the launch of a book titled: Shifting Sands: Nigeria’s Evolving Gender Landscape and another roundtable discussion on Intergenerational Conversation: Feminist Ideals and Future Governance Accountability.
The events climaxed on Friday 22nd November with a Valedictory Lecture titled, From The Margin to The Mainstream: Gender and Inclusive African Development.
Friday’s occasion was a gathering of the Who’s Who in the nation’s educational sector as scholars after scholars poured in torrents of accolades and tributes extolling the virtues of the celebrant and freshly-minted retiree.
The three Deputy Vice-Chancellors of OAU,
Prof Olubola Babalola(DVC Academics), Prof Yomi Daramola(DVC Admin), and Prof Akanni Akinyemi(DVC Research, Innovation and Development) represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A.S. Bamire at the event where the opening prayer was offered by Bishop Bishop Felix Ajakaiye, Catholic Bishop of Ekiti.
A full delegation from Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti of which Prof Olabisi Aina is Pro-Chancellor led by the University’s Promoter, Dr Mrs Adenike Kolawole graced the occasion.
Also present were Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, Prof Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa and representative of the VC, Redeemers University, Ede, Prof Shola Akinbobola.
The rest were former OAU VC, Prof Mike Faborode, Prof Yemi Adekunle, Prof Ibukun Akanni, Prof Fabayo and Prof and Prof Mrs Durosinmi as well as Prof and Prof Mrs Adebayo Adéyemí, among several others.
Those present all eulogized the celebrant with superlative adjectives, describing her as a role model and mentor.
One of the highpoints of the valedictory events was the investiture of Fellows of the Center for Gender, Women and Children in Social Development(CGWCSD).
In her valedictory lecture, Prof Aina lamented that gender inequality and imbalances against women, children and vulnerable groups have held down real development in Nigeria. It is no wonder, she argued, “gender is considered a cross-cutting variable in all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In essence, no nation can achieve the SDG goals without addressing the root causes of underdevelopment: gender inequality, women’s disempowerment, and social exclusionary practices. These, and many more are at the core of ‘gender and development’ discourse.”
She is of the opinion that achieving gender equality in Africa requires addressing both progress and persisting challenges. A multi-faceted approach, with continued advocacy, policy refinement, and nternational cooperation, is essential to improve the lives of African women and girls.
This was her concluding remark and final thoughts: “Together, we can shape a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality for everyone!
“As I retire from my academic and professional roles at Obafemi Awolowo University, I am filled with hope for the future of ‘Gender and Development’ in Africa. I am confident that our collective efforts will continue to drive positive change, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
“I firmly believe that the next generation of scholars, activists, policymakers, and leaders will not only advance the cause of gender equality but also build upon the strong foundation we have established.”
