Dominican University Appoints Prof. Jacinta Opara As First Female Vice Chancellor

Dominican University, Ibadan has announced the appointment of Prof. Jacinta Opara as the first female Vice Chancellor of the institution.

According to a statement by the institution, the decision was made official by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chief Anthony Idigbe (SAN), following a comprehensive selection process overseen by the university’s Joint Governing Council, Senate, and a professional recruiting firm.

Her appointment, which takes effect immediately, marks a significant milestone for the institution.

The statement added that the rigorous recruitment process which adhered to global best practices was aimed at at ensuring academic excellence and innovation.

“Prof. Opara’s appointment is anticipated to usher in an era of scholarly distinction and progressive leadership at Dominican University.

“Dominican University, formerly known as Dominican Institute, is the first university of the Order of Preachers on the African continent. The Order, founded in 1216 by Spanish priest Dominic de Guzman, has a long-standing tradition of involvement in higher education globally.

“The university received its license from the Federal Government of Nigeria on November 22, 2016, marking its official establishment.

“Prof. Opara’s appointment is notable as she becomes the institution’s first female Vice Chancellor.

“ With a five-year term ahead, she will serve as the Academic and Administrative Head and Chief Executive, reporting directly to the university’s Governing Council.

“Her vision focuses on fostering a dynamic learning environment, promoting academic excellence, and enhancing community engagement,” the statement said.

According to the statement, Opara who was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in 1976, is a distinguished environmental scholar and educator with an extensive background in management and human rights.

She is the President of the African Association for Teaching and Learning and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute of Policy Management Development.

Her academic credentials include degrees from the University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and several postgraduate degrees from institutions worldwide.

Opara’s career began in 1997 as a Science Teacher at the College of the Immaculate Conception, Enugu. Over the past 25 years, she has held teaching, research, and consulting roles across Africa, America, Europe, and Asia.

She was promoted to full Professor in 2016 at Kampala International University and has since served at numerous universities, including the University of Maiduguri, Federal University Kashere, and Ahmadu Bello University, among others.

Her extensive administrative experience includes roles as Head of Department, Dean, Director, and Deputy Vice Chancellor. She has also served as a Visiting Scholar and Professor at various international institutions. Professor Opara’s commitment to teaching, research, and community service has earned her a global reputation for excellence.

Opara is a founding Co-Executive Director of the Center for Environment and Community Development and serves on several boards and councils, including the Metropolitan International University and the Mediterranean Center for Social and Educational Research.

She is a Fellow of multiple professional bodies and has received numerous awards and grants.

With over 200 publications, including more than 130 academic journal articles and 15 books, Professor Opara’s contributions to academia are substantial.

She is deeply committed to student success and is expected to enhance research funding, international collaborations, and community outreach during her tenure at Dominican University.

Opara, a devout Christian, is fluent in English and Spanish and has visited over 30 countries. She is married with children.