Medinat Folorunso Salman: A Trailblazer Appointed as KWASUED’s Pioneer Vice Chancellor
By Abubakar Imam — A closer look at the career and character of the woman chosen to lead Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED).
In a move hailed by many in Kwara State and beyond, Professor Medinat Folorunso Salman was named the pioneer Chief Executive Officer and Acting Vice Chancellor of the newly established Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED), Ilorin. Announced by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the appointment marks several important firsts for the state and for the institution.
Historic appointment with clear merit
Professor Salman’s selection is notable not only because she is the first woman to head a public university in Kwara State, but also because she is an Ilorin indigene chosen to pioneer a university located in the city she knows well. Those who have followed her long career point to a consistent record of academic excellence, administrative experience and professional integrity — factors that underscore the appointment’s merit-based nature.
From classroom teacher to university leadership
Professor Salman’s journey to the vice-chancellorship is rooted in decades of teaching and scholarship. Born on June 30, 1958, in Ilorin, she received her early education locally and at reputable institutions elsewhere, progressing from primary school through teacher training colleges and eventually to university-level study. Her academic path includes a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Mathematics and Chemistry, a Second Class (Upper) degree in Mathematics Education from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and both a Master’s and PhD in Mathematics Education from the University of Ilorin.
Before joining the University of Ilorin in 1999 as a Lecturer II, Prof. Salman taught at primary and secondary schools across Kwara State, bringing practical classroom experience to her later academic roles. Her rise through the ranks at the university—eventually becoming a full professor in 2012—reflects sustained contributions to teaching, research and community service.
Academic leadership and national service
Over the years, Prof. Salman has held a range of academic leadership positions. She served as Head of the Department of Science Education and later as Dean of the Faculty of Education at the University of Ilorin. Beyond campus administration, she participated in national accreditation panels and contributed to professional bodies such as the Mathematical Association of Nigeria (MAN). Her involvement in these committees and panels gave her exposure to higher education quality assurance and policy matters—experience that will be valuable in shaping KWASUED’s early direction.
Mentorship, research and impact
Professor Salman’s academic record includes numerous publications and a strong supervision portfolio: she has guided many postgraduate students to completion, including a significant number of PhD dissertations and Master’s theses. Her work in making mathematics more accessible to learners — through culturally relevant and student-friendly teaching methods — has earned respect among colleagues and pupils alike. Admirers frequently describe her as both exacting and compassionate: a teacher who demands clarity but also supports learners to succeed.
Values that matter
Colleagues and former students regularly highlight Prof. Salman’s humility, discipline and commitment to fairness. Her reputation for treating people with respect, regardless of their rank or status, has helped build trust across academic and community circles. That reputation — combined with her deep professional experience — underpins the widespread positive reaction to her appointment.
Why this appointment matters for KWASUED and Kwara
KWASUED opens at a time when the demand for high-quality teacher education and professional training is growing. Having a pioneer vice chancellor who understands classroom realities, accreditation processes and the Nigerian higher education landscape positions the university to develop strong teacher preparation programmes and research agendas. As a local son/daughter leading a local institution, Prof. Salman’s leadership is also symbolic: it signals confidence in local talent and a commitment to building institutions that serve the region’s educational needs.
Personal life and community ties
Outside academia, Professor Salman is married to Senator Isiaka Adebayo Salman, a medical doctor and public figure who has served both in health leadership roles and as a lawmaker. Their family life includes three children. Prof. Salman’s community engagement and her long-standing professional networks make her well placed to mobilize local support for KWASUED’s growth.
Looking ahead
As the pioneer vice chancellor, Prof. Medinat Folorunso Salman faces the twin tasks of laying a solid administrative foundation and shaping the university’s academic identity. Given her track record — from classroom teaching to academic governance — many stakeholders are optimistic that KWASUED will benefit from a leader who values academic rigor, ethical conduct, and inclusive leadership.
We wish Professor Salman a successful tenure as she guides KWASUED through its formative years and positions it as a centre for quality teacher education in the region.
Further reading & references
- University of Ilorin — Prof. Salman’s long-time academic home.
- Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED) — official site for institutional updates.
- Alphayem: Education — more news and analysis on higher education in Kwara and Nigeria. (internal)
Author’s note: This profile celebrates the achievements and leadership qualities of Professor Medinat Folorunso Salman as she takes on the role of pioneer vice chancellor at KWASUED. Alphayem will continue to follow developments at the university and report significant milestones.
