Mbolaji Faith Odumade

Nigerian educator who founded Nigeria's first girls' boarding school in 1948

Biography

Mbolaji Faith Odumade (1920–2006) revolutionized Nigerian education by establishing the Girls' Secondary School, Ibadan in 1948. A teacher and administrator, she implemented modern curricula emphasizing science and leadership. Her 1955 report》 on girls' education influenced national policy.

Odumade co-founded the Nigeria Women's Union in 1956, advocating for women's political participation. She later became the first female vice-chancellor of the University of Lagos. Her autobiography 《My Life in Education》 chronicles her challenges as a woman in academia.

Legacy

Over 10,000 students have graduated from her school. The Mbolaji Odumade Foundation》 continues promoting girls' education. Her work is highlighted in contemporary leadership programs》. UNESCO cites her as a pioneer in African educational reforms》.