We envision a polytechnic that is recognised across Africa for its cutting-edge curriculum, world-class faculty, modern infrastructure, and the transformative impact of its graduates on the national economy.
Dr. Awuzie Chioma Irene is a respected scholar, researcher, and Chief Lecturer in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology at Federal Polytechnic, Oko. She specializes in Physical and Materials Chemistry and holds a PhD from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, along with advanced degrees from Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
With over 22 years of teaching experience, she has made significant contributions to research, publishing 28+ journal articles, 34 conference papers, and 11 books. She is a Fellow of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, and the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.
Dr. Awuzie has gained international recognition for her work, including the Best Paper Presenter Award at the International Conference on Science, Technology, and Management. Her research focuses on areas such as chemistry education, renewable energy, water sustainability, and food safety, and she has presented her work at numerous conferences worldwide.
Before her appointment as Rector by President Bola Tinubu, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in academia, serving in various capacities at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, including:
– Desk Officer, TETFUND (2018–2025) responsible for liaising with TETFUND, securing fundings, and managing institutional projects.
– Coordinator, Technical & Vocational Education and Training (TVET) (2014–2018) – overseeing skills development initiatives.
– Head, Department of Renewable Energy (2014-2018)
– Director, Petroleum, Coal & Renewable Energy Unit (2011-2015).
– Director, International Higher Education Academic Organizations (2015-2019)
– Chairman, TETFUND ICT Board (2019–2025).
– Managing Editor, Federal Polytechnic Oko International Journal of Science and Engineering (2015–2025)
– Chairman Stalled/Ongoing Projects Committee (2020 -2022)
– Member Affiliation Committee, Federal Polytechnic Oko (2019-2025)
– Secretary Federal Polytechnic Oko Research Committee (2019-2025)
– Secretary TETFUND Library Development Committee, Fed Poly Oko (2018-Date)
– Chairman Transition Committee 2018
– Member Committee on Continuous Assessment (2014 – 2019)
– Member Committee on Oko Centre for Research and Development Studies (2013-2019)
– Member Committee on Strategic Action Plan for the Institution (2013 – 2019)
– Member/Alternate Secretary Constitution of Tenders’ Board Committee (2022-2025)
– Secretary Committee on a Case of Forged Doctorate Degree (2020)
– Member Committee on Failed/Ongoing Projects (2021-2025)
– Secretary Research Grant Committee (2012 -2019)
She has played a pivotal role in securing research grants, infrastructure development, and policy formulation within the institution.
Beyond academics, she is a devoted family woman, a mentor to young scientists, and a passionate advocate for sustainable development. Dr. Awuzie’s influence in science education and research continues to inspire the next generation of chemists and innovators in Nigeria and beyond.
