University Of Sunderland Honours University Of Ibadan VC

A professor whose work has improved the lives of countless women in Nigeria has been honoured by the university.

Professor Isaac Adewole received an Honorary Doctorate of Science in recognition of his outstanding academic career and his commitment to the promotion of medical screening and preventative medicine in Nigeria.

Professor Adewole is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and is Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

He obtained his Bachelor of Medicine from the University of Ibadan in 1978, joining the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, where he became Senior Registrar in 1984. A Research Fellowship in the Department of Medical Oncology at Charring Cross Hospital in London followed. Professor Adewole was then appointed to the University of Ibadan, where became Provost of the College of Medicine from 2002 to 2006.

As a Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adewole has transformed the University of Ibadan into one of Africa’s top 10 universities.

Professor Adewole is the Principal Investigator of the AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria, Co-Principal Investigator of the Medical Education Partnership, a former Chairman of the National Task Team on Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV, and Principal Investigator for ‘Operation Stop Cervical Cancer’ in Nigeria.

In 2013 he was presented with the Distinguished Service Award for Excellence in Research in recognition of his contribution to improving the health of Nigerian women.

Professor Adewole said: “An African proverb says ‘Until you unmask it, a masquerade remains a terror’. A war against terror - of any kind - is best achieved through collective efforts. Our modest contributions from our corner of the globe have helped in restoring hope to millions of people without hope.

“It has become a lamp among the armament that unmasked the monster HIV, and we shall continue to beam the light of research on all threats to human existence.

“This award is a recognition of the power of education and teamwork in addressing a global scourge.”

University Vice-Chancellor Shirley Atkinson says: "Our honoraries have all made highly significant contributions within their fields and will inspire our graduates as they celebrate their academic success and embark on their careers. We are proud to pay tribute to them."