The Remarkable Journey of Prof. Grace Alele-Williams, Nigeria's First Female Vice-Chancellor
Grace Alele-Williams is a renowned Nigerian mathematician, educator, and the first female vice-chancellor of a Nigerian university. She was born on December 16, 1932, in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.
Alele-Williams began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Ibadan in 1958, where she graduated with first-class honors. She later earned her Master's degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Chicago in 1960 and a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from the University of Chicago in 1963, becoming one of the first Nigerian women to earn a doctorate in mathematics.
Throughout her career, Alele-Williams held various academic positions, including lecturer and professor, at several institutions in Nigeria, including the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan. Her contributions to mathematics education and her dedication to teaching earned her widespread recognition and respect within the academic community.
In 1985, Alele-Williams made history by becoming the first female vice-chancellor of a Nigerian university when she was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin. During her tenure, she focused on improving academic standards, infrastructure development, and promoting gender equality within the university.
Aside from her academic achievements, Alele-Williams has been actively involved in advocating for the advancement of women in science and mathematics. She has served as a mentor and role model for many aspiring female mathematicians and educators in Nigeria and beyond.
Here's why we consider her a woman giant:
- Prof. Alele-Williams earned her Honours degree in Mathematics from the University of Ibadan in 1954. She later taught mathematics and pursued her master's degree while teaching at Queens School, Ede.
- With a Graduate Fellowship award, she earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from the University of Chicago, becoming Nigeria's first female to achieve this in 1963.
- Returning to Nigeria, she held positions at the University of Ibadan and later became a professor at the University of Lagos in 1976. She also served as the Director of the Institute of Education.
- At the University of Lagos, she introduced certificate courses for older women to become primary school teachers and chaired various educational committees.
- Alele-Williams participated in the African Mathematics Programme, promoting math education in Africa.
- In 1985, she became Nigeria's first female Vice-Chancellor at the University of Benin, serving until 1992.
- She received numerous awards, including the Order of Niger (OON) and honorary degrees from the University of Ibadan.
- Notable positions include Chairman of the African Mathematical Union Commission for Women in Mathematics and Vice-president of the World Organisation for Early Childhood Education.
- Her contributions to Nigerian higher education, fight against cultism, and focus on women's education have left a lasting impact. Alele-Williams continues to be celebrated for her achievements.
Alele-Williams's contributions to mathematics education and her groundbreaking achievements as a female academic leader have earned her numerous accolades and honors, both nationally and internationally. She remains a symbol of excellence and inspiration for women in academia and continues to advocate for quality education and gender equality in Nigeria.