History

AFRICA'S FIRST FEMALE VICE CHANCELLOR

Professor Grace Anwani Alele-Williams is Nigeria's first female doctorate degree holder when she received her PhD in Mathematics Education at the University of Chicago in 1963 with a dissertation on "Dynamics of Education in the Birth of a New Nation: Case study of Nigeria". In 1974, she became the first female professor of mathematics education.

In 1985, Alele-Williams became the first female Vice Chancellor of an African university when she accepted that position at the University of Benin, Benin-City. She remained as Vice Chancellor until 1991. Professor Alele-Williams also served in various committees and boards, she had made useful contributions in the development of education in Nigeria.

Professor Grace Alele-Williams was married to late Professor Babatunde Williams and they are blessed with five children and nine grandchildren.