Wrong to assume all women sleep upward — Lafiaji-Okuneye, LASUED VC

By Elizabeth Osayande In this interview, Prof. Bidemi Bilikis Lafiaji-Okuneye shares her experience and the dynamics of being the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education, LASUED, Ijanikin, Lagos. She speaks on what it means to break the ceiling of patriarchy in administration and leadership.

How can you describe being the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University of Education, LASUED? There is no tutelage; you can’t say this is how it is.” And there is no understudying. One is not able to learn beforehand.

For example, if you are a DVC (Deputy Vice-Chancellor) in a university, you are already learning what it takes to step into the shoes of a VC. I learned from myself and, of course, I used other experiences that I have gained from the university setting to be able to navigate this task. I’m very particular about females taking leadership positions, because most of the work I do is about spotlighting females.

In achieving this role, were there any sentiments or pushback as to whether it is appropriate for a woman to be the VC? No, not in the area of appointing a woman. But in the area of having a woman issue directives, some men would not want to take directives from an ordinary woman.

“How can an ordinary woman…?” And yes, you see it in their countenance. But I think we have come to the age where anyone who merits anything should be given it. It should not be determined by gender.

And without being immodest, I could authoritatively say that women are doing better in the areas of administration and leadership. Because as a woman, you can’t seduce me. But men are more culpable; they can be compromised.