Professor Bidemi Bilikis Lafiaji-Okuneye, the inaugural Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), recently discussed her journey in leading a newly established institution. She emphasized that transitioning from a college to a university required navigating significant challenges without a pre-existing blueprint or mentorship.
Addressing misconceptions about women in leadership, the Vice-Chancellor rejected the notion that women reach top positions through unethical means. She argued that these narratives are merely tools used to undermine female authority. She noted that while some men occasionally struggle to accept directives from a woman, she remains committed to being both firm and fair, asserting that women often display higher levels of professional discipline and integrity.
Discussing the university’s growth, Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye credited the support of the Lagos State Government and the dedication of her staff for the institution’s rapid progress. Since its inception as a university, student enrollment has surged from roughly 1,200 to over 16,000. The school has successfully secured accreditation for 66 courses from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and is currently expanding infrastructure, including new lecture theaters and upcoming residential facilities for students.
Looking ahead, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the institution maintains rigorous academic standards. To ensure graduates are competitive, the school mandates an entrepreneurship certificate alongside standard degree programs and encourages students to register businesses with the CAC before finishing their studies. She also voiced strong support for policies that allow aspiring teachers to enter the profession without the traditional hurdles of the JAMB system, advocating for a focus on quality candidates over mere test scores.
