Professor Oghenetega Ighedo, a Nigerian-born mathematician and mother of three, has made academic history at the University of South Africa (UNISA) after becoming the first Black woman to obtain a PhD in Pure Mathematics from the institution in its 148-year history.
Ighedo’s achievement has drawn attention to the representation of Black women in advanced mathematics and highlighted her determination to pursue academic excellence while balancing family responsibilities.
An associate professor in UNISA’s Department of Mathematical Sciences, Ighedo has built an academic career around mathematics, a field she developed an interest in from an early age. Her accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the university and provides an example for women seeking to establish careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Her academic journey began at Delta State University in Nigeria, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Mathematics. She later pursued a Master of Science degree in Pure Mathematics at the University of Ibadan before advancing to doctoral studies at UNISA.
Ighedo completed her PhD in Pure Mathematics in three years, an achievement made more demanding by her responsibilities at home. During her doctoral studies, she was married, raising two children and expecting her third child.
Balancing the demands of advanced research, family life and other responsibilities required considerable commitment. Her experience has since become an example of how women can pursue demanding academic goals while navigating personal and family obligations.
Ighedo has credited her mother, a retired mathematics teacher, for inspiring her interest in the subject. Growing up with that influence helped shape her academic ambitions and encouraged her to pursue mathematics at university level.
Her decision to specialise in Pure Mathematics was also influenced by the limited representation of Black mathematicians, particularly Black women, in the field. She was motivated to advance her studies in an area where women from her background remain underrepresented.
Pure Mathematics focuses on abstract mathematical concepts, structures and relationships. It provides a foundation for several applied disciplines, including physics, computer science, engineering and other scientific fields.
Despite its importance, advanced mathematics can present significant barriers to students who lack access to adequate academic support, mentorship and opportunities. Ighedo’s achievement has therefore drawn attention to the need to encourage more young people, especially girls, to explore mathematical and scientific careers.
Her accomplishment also highlights the importance of supporting women in higher education and creating environments where academic talent can develop regardless of gender or background.
Ighedo has encouraged young women not to allow adversity and challenges to prevent them from pursuing their ambitions. Her journey demonstrates the importance of perseverance, education and sustained commitment when working towards long-term goals.
As an academic at UNISA, she continues to contribute to mathematics education and research, while her historic doctoral achievement serves as an important reference point for discussions about inclusion and representation in higher education.
Her milestone is expected to inspire students and aspiring researchers who hope to pursue advanced qualifications in mathematics and other STEM disciplines.
Source: Thepressradio.com
