Empowering Girls and Confronting Violence: Dr. Judith I. Ani, Founder of Education and Research for Sustainable Development, Leads Gender-Based Violence Awareness Campaign

September 14, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Social Impact

At Girls Secondary School, Ngwo, Enugu State, a remarkable awareness event unfolded—one that empowered over 250 young girls with critical knowledge and confidence to confront and challenge Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Organized by the Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSD) supported by Due Process Advocates (DPA) and the Heroine Women Foundation, the programme was a beacon of advocacy and education.

At the forefront of this initiative was Dr. Judith I. Ani, Executive Director of ERSD and a leading voice in gender rights and research-based advocacy. Her vision to educate, protect, and inspire action against GBV brought together a team of experts and advocates who addressed the root causes, consequences, and actionable solutions to this pervasive issue.

Understanding the Urgency

Gender-Based Violence remains a critical human rights issue with far-reaching consequences. Beyond the physical harm, GBV diminishes a victim’s self-worth, triggers psychological trauma, and can lead to depression, self-harm, and social isolation. The campaign stressed that freedom from violence is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. Participants were introduced to the causes of GBV, which include: Drug and substance abuse, Emotional frustration and depression, Unemployment and poverty, Harmful cultural ideologies, Paedophilic attitudes, etc. The facilitators also explored the various forms of GBV, such as: Sexual violence, Physical violence, Emotional and psychological violence, Economic and cultural violence, and so on. Real-life examples, including rape, domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and intimate partner violence (IPV), were discussed to deepen understanding and promote early detection and reporting.

A Multi-Voiced Movement

Joining Dr. Ani were voices like Barr. Emeka E. Ugwuonye, Founder and CEO of Due Process Advocates, and Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Chukwu Joy Mamah, Executive Director of the Heroine Women Foundation. Barr. Ugwuonye, affectionately referred to as the “digital daddy,” encouraged the girls to recognize their rights and the strength of their voices. Hon. Mamah delivered a powerful session on reclaiming self-confidence and navigating personal empowerment in the face of adversity. Another highlight was the inspiring presence of Onyii Eziallor, whose delivery created an atmosphere of awakening and personal discovery for the participants. Her engaging talk encouraged the girls to envision a future free from fear and filled with possibility.

Dr. Ani emphasized that addressing GBV requires a comprehensive approach:

Strengthening laws and policies
Raising awareness of women’s rights
Providing institutional redress and support
Mandating male involvement in prevention and advocacy

By increasing the social and legal consequences for perpetrators and promoting shared responsibility, society can take significant steps toward eradicating GBV.

A Lasting Impact

The awareness programme did more than educate—it inspired. It planted seeds of resilience and advocacy among young girls, reinforcing the role of education as both shield and sword in the fight against gender-based violence. Through initiatives like this, ERSD and its partners are building a generation of empowered girls ready to challenge harmful norms and lead with purpose. Dr. Judith I. Ani’s leadership continues to pave the way for meaningful, research-informed interventions that promote safety, dignity, and justice for all.

Dr. Judith Ifunanya Ani Empowers Researchers with Grant-Writing Skills at Climate Change Conference

September 14, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Social Impact

DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA – February 24, 2025 – At the Glotan–Durban University of Technology Joint Conference on Climate Change and Economic Management for a Sustainable Future, Dr. Judith Ifunanya Ani, delivered one of the most engaging and impactful sessions of the event. With her extensive background in research and grant writing, Dr. Ani facilitated a session titled “Writing Grant-Winning Proposals,” equipping participants with practical strategies and fresh perspectives on how to secure competitive funding for high-impact projects.

The conference itself brought together a diverse mix of academics, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners, all focused on tackling the twin challenges of climate change and sustainable economic growth. Within this context, Dr. Ani’s session stood out as particularly timely—emphasizing that good research ideas alone are not enough; without strong proposals and effective grant-seeking strategies, valuable innovations often remain unfunded and unrealized.

Breaking Down the Essentials of Proposal Writing

Dr. Ani structured her facilitation around the key building blocks of a successful grant application, guiding participants step by step through the process:

Pre-Proposal Planning: She emphasized the importance of preparation before even beginning to draft, including understanding eligibility requirements, carefully aligning projects with funder priorities, and paying close attention to timelines and submission deadlines.
Structuring the Research Proposal: She unpacked the critical elements of a compelling proposal—articulating the motivation behind the study, framing clear and answerable research questions, presenting a sound methodology, and highlighting the project’s contribution to existing literature.
Budgeting and Justification: Beyond ideas, funding agencies look for feasibility. Dr. Ani explained how to develop a well-structured, realistic budget that aligns with project goals, and how to justify costs in ways that demonstrate accountability and strategic planning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: From vague objectives to misaligned priorities, she highlighted the pitfalls that often lead to rejection, offering practical advice on how to spot and correct these errors.
Dealing with Rejection: Perhaps the most inspiring part of her session was the emphasis on resilience. She shared from personal experience how even strong applications sometimes face rejection and reminded participants that unsuccessful attempts should be treated as stepping stones rather than dead ends.

Building Resilience Through Rejection

One of Dr. Ani’s strongest messages was about changing the way researchers think about rejection. Instead of viewing it as failure, she encouraged participants to see feedback from funders as a resource. “Every rejection carries within it the seed of a stronger proposal,” she shared, noting that persistence and the willingness to adapt are often what separate successful grant winners from those who give up too soon. This message resonated deeply with participants, many of whom openly shared their own struggles and frustrations with past applications.

An Interactive and Collaborative Session

Far from a one-way lecture, the session was highly interactive. Participants engaged actively, asking questions, sharing their experiences with grant writing, and reflecting on the barriers they had faced. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and mutual learning. Attendees expressed appreciation for Dr. Ani’s approachable teaching style, her ability to break down complex processes into simple, actionable steps, and the use of real-world examples drawn from her own journey as a researcher and mentor.

Several participants commented that the session demystified grant writing for them—transforming what previously felt like a daunting process into one that is manageable, structured, and, with practice, achievable. By the end of the workshop, many left with renewed confidence and practical insights they could immediately apply to their current and future projects.

Strengthening Research Capacity for Sustainable Impact

Dr. Ani’s contribution to the conference extended beyond technical training—it reflected her broader commitment to capacity building within the academic and research community. By equipping researchers with the tools to write stronger proposals, she is also helping to unlock resources that can fuel innovative solutions to pressing challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and community resilience.

Her facilitation aligned seamlessly with the goals of the conference: fostering collaboration, enhancing research excellence, and ensuring that ground-breaking ideas are not lost due to lack of funding. In doing so, she reinforced her reputation not just as a researcher, but as a mentor and advocate for sustainable impact in Africa and beyond.

Looking Ahead

As participants continue to apply the lessons learned from her workshop, the ripple effects of Dr. Ani’s facilitation are likely to be felt long after the conference. Stronger proposals mean more funded projects, and more funded projects mean greater opportunities to address the urgent social and environmental challenges facing communities today.

Her session was more than a technical training—it was a call to action, reminding researchers that persistence, preparation, and strategic communication are key to turning ideas into impact.

In taking on this role, Dr. Judith Ifunanya Ani not only strengthened the skills of fellow scholars but also underscored her own commitment to advancing research excellence, sustainability, and mentorship within the academic world.

Dr. Judith I. Ani Champions Qualitative Research at Landmark Workshop for African Scholars

May 25, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Social Impact

In a resounding testament to academic collaboration and capacity building, the workshop titled “Grant Writing, Winning, and Rewardable Scholarly Career in Africa”—held at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) on February 15–16, 2024—brought together some of the brightest minds in African research. Co-organised by TASUED and the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), the event hosted over 80 scholars from various public and private institutions, all converging to sharpen their skills in research, grant acquisition, and academic development.

Among the facilitators who left a lasting impression was Dr. Judith I. Ani, a respected qualitative researcher and passionate academic leader affiliated with Inspire World Foundation. Dr. Ani played a pivotal role in the workshop’s success, leading a specialised session on qualitative research methods that offered participants a deep dive into the intricacies of design, data collection, and analysis.

With clarity and warmth, Dr. Ani guided participants through the often complex terrain of qualitative inquiry, illustrating how narratives, interviews, and grounded theory approaches could be employed to uncover rich, contextual insights—particularly within African communities. Her session not only demystified qualitative research for early-career academics but also reinforced its value in tackling pressing societal issues, such as gender inequality, community health, and education.

The two-day workshop was enriched by contributions from prominent speakers and facilitators, including Prof. Evans Osabuohien (Chair of DIaDeRC), Prof. Samuel Ekundayo (Director of Research at TASUED), and Olasubomi Obadeyi of Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), who addressed research ethics and communication. It also featured a high-level engagement from public officials, notably the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology in Ogun State, Prof. Abayomi A. Arigbabu, and TASUED’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole Sikiru Banjo.

Dr. Ani’s interactive approach allowed participants to explore real-world research scenarios, refine their methodological choices, and receive personalised feedback. Her facilitation underscored the critical role of qualitative research in grant-winning proposals—emphasising depth, context, and the human element behind data.

The workshop concluded with practical breakout sessions, where scholars presented concept notes in thematic groups, receiving expert feedback from facilitators like Dr. Ani. Many participants described these sessions as transformative, with several now actively collaborating in research teams formed under the new TASUED-DIaDeRC Community.

As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere buzzed with newfound confidence and camaraderie. Certificates were issued, media houses like NTA and Nigerian Tribune captured the moment, and facilitators like Dr. Judith Ani were celebrated for their role in shaping a new generation of African scholars.

This workshop not only showcased the synergy between institutions like TASUED and DIaDeRC but also affirmed the power of mentorship and methodical research training—areas where Dr. Ani continues to lead with expertise and inspiration.

Address the Critical Need for Education for a Sustainable Development (11)

Addressing the Critical Need for Education for a Sustainable Development

May 25, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Social Impact

In alignment with the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this outreach event sought to address the critical need for education for a sustainable development. Recognizing the alarming statistic that six out of 10 children fail to reach basic education due to a learning crisis, our initiative aimed to reshape perceptions of education among young minds. We believe that education should not be viewed as a daunting task but rather as a gateway to opportunity and growth. To instill this perspective, we organized an outreach event targeting over 500 beneficiaries, with the primary focus on projecting education as a catalyst for development and equipping children with essential skills for the future.

Objectives and Approach:

The core objective of our outreach was to expose children to the indispensable skills required for their holistic development, including critical and creative thinking, teamwork, resilience, and effective communication. Understanding that traditional classroom methods may not fully address these needs, we decided to utilize sport, specifically football, as an innovative entry point. Football, with its universal appeal and inherent values, serves as an effective tool for instilling important life lessons such as teamwork, respect, honesty, and resilience. By integrating football into our educational outreach, we aimed to create a fun-filled experience with lasting impact.

Implementation and Impact:

The outreach event unfolded with various engaging activities designed to blend education with sport. Through interactive sessions, children were encouraged to explore the parallels between football and life skills. They learned the importance of teamwork, the value of perseverance in the face of challenges, and the significance of mutual respect both on and off the field. Beyond physical health benefits, the event also fostered the development of psychosocial skills and leadership abilities among participants.

Moreover, the outreach served as a platform to emphasize the critical role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting gender equality. By instilling a passion for learning at a young age, we aspire to pave the way for a future where both boys and girls have equal opportunities to lead dignified lives. The event concluded with a renewed sense of enthusiasm among participants, as they embraced the transformative power of education and sport.

Conclusively:

Our outreach event successfully merged the principles of education, sport, and sustainable development to empower over 500 children with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. By leveraging the universal appeal of football, we were able to instill valuable life skills while promoting the importance of education for long-term prosperity. As we reflect on the impact of this initiative, we remain committed to fostering a generation of empowered individuals who are equipped to create positive change in their communities and beyond.

Women, walking with what possesions they can carry, arrive in a steady trickle at an IDP camp erected next to an AMISOM military base near the town of Jowhar, Somalia, on November 12. Heavy rains in Somalia, coupled with recent disputes between clans, has resulted in over four thousand IDPs seeking shelter at an AMISOM military base near the town of Jowhar, with more arriving daily. AU UN IST Photo / Tobin Jones. Original public domain image from Flickr

Experiences of gender-based violence among women in sub-Saharan Africa: identifying evidence for intervention and public health priorities

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Publications Research Social Impact

Background

Gender-based violence (GBV) poses a significant global threat to human rights, public health and attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. There is a growing emphasis on researching to identify issues and understand the experiences of women relative to GBV. The increasing demand for policymakers and public health practitioners to adopt evidence-based approaches in addressing GBV highlights the need for research prioritization on experiences of GBV among women in resource-limited settings such as sub-Saharan Africa. This paper explored GBV among women in 25 sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries to identify and present key intervention priority areas for addressing GBV in these settings.

Methods

The study involved a cross-sectional analysis of a nationally representative dataset from the Demographic and Health Survey of 25 SSA African countries. Data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the Pearson chi-square (X2) at a p < 0.05.

Results

Findings revealed that women aged 25–29, living in rural areas and with primary education were at a significant risk of experiencing GBV across 25 SSA countries. A notable 44.94% of women reported experiencing at least one form of GBV, with the prevalence varying by country. Women in Comoros had the lowest reported prevalence (10.76%), while Sierra Leone women had the highest (60.27%), followed by Uganda (56.92%). Emotional and physical violence were most prevalent in Sierra Leone, while sexual violence was most common in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Discussion

This study highlights the urgent need for targeted …

Scholar articles

Experiences of gender-based violence among women in sub-Saharan Africa: identifying evidence for intervention and public health priorities

LN Katende-Kyenda, JI Ani – Frontiers in Public Health, 2025

Full Document

Covid-19-Vaccine-development-e1599531596297

Perception of COVID-19 Vaccination and Uptake Willingness in Northern Nigeria: Understanding Strategies to Optimize Coverage

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Publications Research

Abstract: Background: Vaccination is a proven and safe method for combating COVID-19; however, coverage remains low in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. There is also a lack of contextual evidence regarding the public perception of and willingness to receive vaccines. This study aims to contribute to efforts to optimize the vaccination coverage and improve public health in northern Nigeria. Objective: This study investigated the perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination and willingness to uptake the vaccine in northern Nigeria, aiming to identify strategies for optimizing coverage and enhancing vaccination rates. Methods: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted across the Federal Capital Territory and five northern states in Nigeria. The survey assessed the respondents’ perceptions of COVID-19, their knowledge of the COVID-19 vaccine, and their willingness to be vaccinated. Descriptive and inferential (multivariate logistic regression) statistical analyses were employed to characterize the population and identify predictors of vaccine uptake. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 28.00 years. The majority reported at least one piece of misinformation regarding COVID-19. While awareness of the vaccine was high, its actual uptake was low, and future willingness to receive the vaccine was also limited. Employment status emerged as a significant predictor of vaccine uptake, as determined through the multivariate analysis. Furthermore, collaboration with NGOs and community-based organizations (CBOs) was identified as the most effective strategy for enhancing vaccine uptake. Conclusions: This study found a concerningly low willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among participants in northern Nigeria. To address this issue, we recommend establishing partnerships with NGOs and CBOs, implementing extensive public awareness campaigns, and conducting community outreach programs. These efforts should focus on dispelling misinformation, building community trust, and promoting vaccine uptake through culturally appropriate communication materials.

Keywords: COVID-19; vaccine uptake; vaccine hesitancy; vaccination perception; northern Nigeria (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc

Downloads: (external link)
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/2/153/pdf (application/pdf)
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/2/153/ (text/html)

ERSD Takes Health Sensitizaton To The Grassroots

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Blog Social Impact

A mega rally was organized to enhance ongoing sensitization efforts aimed at increasing the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The initiative was implemented by Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSDI) under the leadership of Dr. Judith I. Ani, in partnership with the International Vaccine Access Centre (IVAC), Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria (DCL), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Women Advocates for Vaccine Access (WAVA), and the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN). The event was supported with funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, through Johns Hopkins.

The campaign was strategically planned to coincide with a major market day in order to reach a broad and diverse audience. Market days typically attract large crowds, including traders, buyers, and visitors from various areas, offering an effective platform for public health engagement. The primary objectives of the rally were to increase public awareness about the importance of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, address widespread myths and misconceptions about the vaccine, encourage vaccination among girls aged 9 to 14, and advocate for its integration into routine immunization schedules.

Activities began in the morning hours with a courtesy visit to a traditional leader whose community hosts one of the major markets targeted for the rally. The leader expressed strong support for the vaccination campaign and commended the efforts of the organizers, noting the relevance of the rally in reaching a wider population. Sensitization activities were conducted across two major markets, beginning with one and proceeding to the other, which is widely known for its extensive commercial activity and segmented trading zones, including those for automotive parts, electrical goods, timber, building materials, and general merchandise. The presence of many women involved in trading in these markets provided an important opportunity to address female audiences directly.

With the support of market leadership and key executives, the sensitization team conducted outreach across various sections of the markets. Informational materials were shared, and discussions were held with traders and customers to provide accurate information about the HPV vaccine. Misconceptions were actively addressed, and the campaign generated excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Mass Administration Campaign (MAC).

The rally was considered successful, having reached a large number of individuals and fostered greater understanding and acceptance of HPV vaccination. The event also highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration in public health initiatives. In addition to the primary partners, ERSDI acknowledged support received from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), MWAN Anambra State Chapter, MWAN National Maternal & Child Health Committee, market leaders, and supportive local businesses including St. Joseph Cakes and Events and Kenan MultiLinks.

The mega rally served as a key mobilization effort to promote HPV vaccine uptake and cervical cancer prevention. It demonstrated the effectiveness of community-centered strategies and reinforced the need for ongoing collaboration between health authorities, civil society organizations, and local stakeholders in addressing public health challenges.

Links to media coverage of the event, pictures of newspaper publications

Groups take Free HPV Vaccine Awareness Campaign to Anambra Community

Breaking the Silence: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness in Ngwo Community, Enugu State

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Blog Social Impact

Introduction

In a quiet corner of Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, a powerful conversation unfolded—one that has long been overdue in rural communities across Nigeria. On August 28, 2021, over 200 men and women from Ngwo gathered for a health sensitisation and awareness outreach that tackled two silent killers: breast and prostate cancer.

The outreach, led by Dr. Judith I. Ani and supported by multiple local and international partners, was not just another community programme. It was a deeply personal, interactive, and educational encounter that sought to break myths, dispel fear, and promote early detection.

A Community-Centered Approach

This outreach was rooted in the belief that health education should be inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the realities of underserved communities. From the outset, community stakeholders were actively involved. Their support was instrumental in mobilising participants and ensuring materials were translated into local languages to improve understanding and engagement.

It wasn’t just about raising awareness—it was about empowering people with knowledge. Discussions focused on understanding risk factors, early signs, and the importance of regular screening. The session also addressed long-held misconceptions and encouraged open dialogue. For many, it was the first time they were hearing accurate, context-relevant information about these diseases.

Action Beyond Words

What made this outreach remarkable was the move from talk to tangible action. Fifteen women underwent free Clinical Breast Examinations (CBE) conducted by medical professionals. Among them, five were found with suspicious lumps and were referred for further medical evaluation. These moments underscored the power of timely intervention and the life-saving potential of community health initiatives.

There were challenges, of course. A scheduled guest speaker from out of state couldn’t make it due to travel disruptions, and some religious sensitivities led to a few women opting out of the physical exam. But even these hurdles highlighted the importance of culturally respectful health interventions and the need for more female medical practitioners in such efforts.

Partnerships that Powered the Impact

The event’s success was made possible by a strong network of partners, including Inspire World International Foundation, BRECAN, LAPO, Niola Cancer Care Foundation, and Jasons Health Organisation, among others. These organisations provided technical, financial, and human resource support that brought the vision to life.

A particularly heartening endorsement came from the office of the Local Government Chairman, whose representative not only attended but expressed interest in replicating the programme across other wards. This shows the growing recognition of grassroots health initiatives as critical tools for public health.

The Journey Ahead

This outreach was not a one-off event. It’s a stepping stone toward more robust, sustainable community health engagement. Plans are underway for a “Pink October” digital series, featuring voices of breast cancer survivors, medical professionals, and public health experts. Additionally, efforts are being made to formally register the initiative, expand its outreach, and secure funding to ensure continuity.

At the heart of it all is a simple but powerful mission: to save lives through education, early detection, and community empowerment.

Because in places like Ngwo—and indeed across Nigeria—awareness is not just the first step. Sometimes, it’s the only chance someone has.

Understanding the Challenges That Hinder Success in the Pursuit of Excellence

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Blog

In November 2024, Dr. Judith Ani inspired and mentored young people during the Ngwo Youth Creative Forum (NYCF) and Teen’s Summit held in Enugu State, Nigeria. Her presentation, titled “Understanding the Challenges that Hinder Success in the Pursuit of Excellence,” was a powerful engagement aimed at equipping teenagers with the right mindset, knowledge, and motivation to pursue excellence despite the obstacles that often derail many from realizing their full potential.

During her talk, Dr. Ani guided the young audience through a meaningful exploration of what excellence truly means. Rather than equating it with perfection, she defined excellence as the consistent pursuit of being good at what one does. This concept, she explained, is rooted in personal commitment, high standards, focus, resilience, and a strong belief in oneself and in God. Excellence, according to her, requires a growth mindset, continuous self-improvement, goal setting, and the ability to live above mediocrity. She emphasized that it is not a final destination but a continuous journey of self-betterment.
As part of her mentorship, she identified several challenges that often hinder young people from achieving excellence. These include negative mindsets, fear of failure, distractions, limited access to mentorship, scarce resources, unhealthy lifestyles, and poor time management. Mental health concerns like self-doubt, depression, and a loss of direction were also mentioned. Despite these barriers, Dr. Ani firmly asserted that there are no valid excuses for a determined mind, reinforcing the belief that every youth has the potential to succeed if they remain focused and intentional.

To help participants overcome these challenges, she introduced a strategic framework she referred to as the “three-room approach”: the Prayer Room, representing spiritual grounding; the Planning Room, emphasizing purpose and goal setting; and the Performance Room, which focuses on taking concrete actions. Beyond this, she urged the youth to develop a growth mindset, embrace daily disciplines like making their beds, seek out mentors and role models, and make use of technology for learning and productivity. She encouraged them to write down their aspirations, commit to action, avoid negative influences, and use affirmations to build confidence and resilience.

Dr. Ani also shared personal reflections and success stories to bring her points to life. She reminded the teens that fear often accompanies big dreams, and that this fear is not a sign to stop, but an indicator of growth. She challenged them to look beyond their immediate environments and to begin shaping themselves for global relevance, drawing inspiration from both local and international success stories.
The session concluded with a rousing call to action, inviting each participant to take three key steps: know yourself, pursue excellence daily, and take action. Dr. Ani led the audience in a series of affirmations, such as “I am excellent,” “I am a global figure,” “I am relevant,” and “I belong to the top,” reinforcing a sense of self-worth and purpose in every participant.

Dr. Judith I. Ani’s presentation was not only informative but deeply inspirational. It offered practical strategies and emotional empowerment for young people determined to rise above their limitations. With her blend of spiritual insight, practical advice, and motivational storytelling, she succeeded in leaving a lasting impact, proving that with prayer, planning, and performance, excellence is within reach for every youth committed to achieving it.

Presentation

Session 4: Practical Insights on Accessing Global Fellowships & Awards

May 21, 2025

by Judith with No Comment Blog

Facilitators: Dr Judith Ani; Dr Victoria Okafor; Dr Romanus Osabohien; and Dr Esther Folarin

This session will feature the following:

Identifying the Right Fellowship or Award
Crafting a Competitive Application
Understanding the Selection Criteria
Leveraging Networking and Mentorship
Navigating the Application Timeline
Overcoming Challenges in the Application Process
Maximizing the Benefits of Fellowships and Awards
Case Studies and Success Stories

Dr. Judith Ani is a postdoctoral fellow at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa. She also serves as the Chief Operations Officer/Director of Research at Inspire World International Foundation, Abuja, Nigeria and leads Partnerships and Programmes at DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), Ota, Nigeria. With research interests in health, gerontology, gender, migration, food security and climate change, she has received awards for her impactful research, contributing to several funded projects, the most recent being the prestigious 2023 African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant, funded by BMZ (German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development) and AvH (Alexander von Humboldt Foundation). Passionate about evidence-based research, she aims to address Africa’s social and health challenges for sustainable development.

Dr Victoria OkaforIs a development economist with experience in macroeconomic and microeconomics analysis. Her research entails addressing developmental challenges such as poverty and inequality in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. She is adept in using analytical tools like Stata and E-views to produce and explore data. She currently works as a consultant in the Poverty and Equity Global Practice of the World Bank, where she provides analytical and research support on poverty measurements in Nigeria and, at the same time, contribute to classifying urban and rural poverty numbers in Nigeria. She holds a lecturership position at Covenant University, Ota, where she had her Masters and Doctorate degrees. She is a 1st Class Economics graduate from Landmark University.

Dr. Romanus Osabohien is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Energy Policy and Research (IEPRe), Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Kajang, Malaysia. Also, he is the publications lead at DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), Nigeria. He is a consultant and reviewer for Global Environmental Outlook 7th Edition (GEO-7), the flagship report of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). Dr Osabohien has executed funded projects both individually and collaboratively. He is an author, reviewer and editorial board member for rated journals such as Elsevier (Heliyon) – Economics, where he serves as an Associate Editor.

Dr Esther Folarinis an assistant professor working as a research associate at Warwick University, UK, and a lecturer at CECOS College, London. She holds a Ph.D in Economics from Covenant University and a Masters in Monetary and Labour Economics from the University of Lagos. She is a professional Lecturer and a member of the National Economic Society (NES), the Canadian Economics Association (CEA) and the Royal Economic Society (RES). She has almost a decade of lecturing experience and commitment to research within international development, economics, and the Global South political economy.