Prof Francisca Nneka Okeke (@Proffrancisca01), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is taking part in Soapbox Science Lagos on 23rd November with the talk: “Women participation in the development of science and technology, towards sustainable development”
Soapbox Science: how did you get to your current position?
Francisca Nneka Okeke (Professor of Physics): I got to my current position in the year 2000, out of hard work and extensive publications from my research work.
SS: What, or who, inspired you to get a career in science?
My late father was my mentor and he inspired me. He taught me Mathematics ahead of my class which made me develop high interest in mathematics that later metamorphosed into a love for science.
SS: What is the most fascinating aspect of your research/work?
My work on daily variations of geomagnetic H, D and Z-fields at equatorial latitudes was an exciting and very interesting project. This is because results from the project shed more light on our understanding of climatic changes that are currently disturbing the world. In other words, variations in geomagnetic fields are related to climatic changes.
SS: What attracted you to Soapbox Science in the first place?
Their idea of incorporating various aspects of different fields in science.
SS: Sum up in one word your expectations for the day
Excitement
SS: If you could change one thing about the scientific culture in Nigeria right now, what would it be?
Teaching and learning processes by introducing use of local available material/resources.
SS: What would be your top recommendation to a woman studying for a PhD and considering pursuing a career in academia?
She has to be focused, determined, persevering and must take up academic challenges in terms of research work, in order to contribute to existing knowledge. She must work for breakthroughs and new discoveries and settle academic controversies or disputes.