A Delta State-born mathematician, Professor Oghenetega Ighedo, has made history as the first Black woman to earn a PhD in Pure Mathematics from the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Ighedo, who is an Associate Professor at UNISA, achieved the milestone in the university’s 148-year history, marking a significant breakthrough for Black women in mathematics.
A proud indigene of Delta State, Ighedo began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Mathematics from Delta State University before obtaining a Master’s degree in Pure Mathematics from the University of Ibadan.
She subsequently completed her PhD in Pure Mathematics at UNISA in three years.
Her academic feat is particularly notable as she pursued her doctoral studies while balancing the demands of motherhood. Inspired by her mother, a retired mathematics teacher, Ighedo continued her academic journey while raising two children and expecting her third.
Her achievement has been celebrated as a testament to excellence, resilience and determination, while also highlighting the importance of representation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The milestone is expected to inspire young people, particularly girls and aspiring mathematicians in Delta State and beyond, to pursue careers in STEM and remain committed to their academic and professional ambitions.
From Delta State to the global academic community, Professor Ighedo’s achievement underscores the possibilities that can be unlocked through education, perseverance and dedication.
