ICRITR Marks International Women’s Day with Strong Call for Mentorship in Academia
The International Women’s Day 2026 Programme was on Tuesday, March 24, commemorated by the International Centre for Regional Integration and Trade Research in Awka, with a renewed call for mentorship, collaboration and mutual support among women in academia.
The programme, held at the Centre’s auditorium and organised in partnership with UNIZIK FM 94.1, brought together scholars, students and other participants both physically and virtually to discuss practical ways of advancing women’s growth in the academic environment.
In her opening remarks, the Director of ICRITR, Professor Ngozi Eunice Egbuna, stressed that mentorship remains a key driver of progress in academia. She said senior academics must be intentional in guiding younger colleagues, adding that institutions become stronger when knowledge and opportunities are shared.
She noted that supporting others to rise does not diminish individual success but rather expands the impact of academic work and leadership.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the occasion Dr. Mrs. Agatha Ijeoma Muoka (née Obiadi) called on women to remain united and committed to one another’s growth. She emphasised the importance of collective effort in building a more inclusive and supportive academic system.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Ifeoma Dunu spoke on the theme “Give to Gain,” urging women to embrace mentorship, knowledge-sharing and collaboration as tools for advancement.
According to her, giving within the academic space involves opening doors for others, offering guidance and creating opportunities that enable more women to succeed. She added that when such support becomes intentional, it produces lasting results across institutions.
In her contribution, Dr. Ngozi Ulogu, Chairperson of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, highlighted the need for women to be more visible and active in professional spaces. She noted that effective communication and participation are important in shaping influence and recognition.
The programme also featured an interactive session where participants exchanged ideas on strengthening mentorship and collaboration. Contributions centred on building strong networks, encouraging continuous engagement and creating opportunities for women to grow within academic institutions.
The event ended with a closing prayer led by Pastor Innocent Mouka.
