Women NeuroLead Connect Symposium 2025: Championing Women Leadership in Neuroscience Across Africa

KIU, Western Campus - The Faculty of Biomedical Sciences at Kampala International University (KIU), Western Campus, in collaboration with World Women in Neuroscience (WWN) and the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), proudly hosted the inaugural Women NeuroLead Connect Symposium 2025. This landmark two-day hybrid event, held from June 4–5, 2025, marked a significant stride in promoting gender equity and leadership within Africa’s neuroscience landscape.

The symposium convened an impressive gathering of renowned neuroscience scholars, regional experts, early-career researchers, and rising women leaders. Topics of engagement included mentorship, resilience in academia, research excellence, manuscript writing and publication, and career advancement opportunities for women in neuroscience.

The event was graced by Assoc. Prof. Eric Mabonga, Deputy Vice Chancellor of KIU Western Campus, as Chief Host. Also in attendance were Madam Asiat Mbabazi, University Secretary, and Dr. Umi Omar, CEO of KIU Teaching Hospital—both honored as distinguished guests. 

 Keynote speakers and panelists included:

• Prof. Anyanwu Emeka, Dean, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences (event host)
• Dr. Ibe Usman, Head of Anatomy Department, KIU
• Prof. Nouria Lakhdar-Ghazal
• Prof. Finbarrs-Bello Elizabeth
• Dr. Ben-Azu Benneth
• Prof. Amira Zaky
• Dr. Vivian Ojiakor, Event Convener
• Dr. Chinna Orish

In his welcome address, Prof. Emeka reaffirmed KIU’s dedication to championing inclusivity in science, stating, “Empowering women in neuroscience is key to unlocking the full potential of the scientific community.”

On the event’s impact, Prof. Patrick Aja, Director of Research, Innovations, Consultancy and Extension (RICE), lauded Dr. Ojiakor for her leadership and for securing WWN’s sponsorship. He emphasized the urgent need to support more women in pursuing research and academic careers. 

A key highlight was the recognition of Dr. Umi Omar and Madam Asiat Mbabazi for their outstanding contributions to women’s advancement in science and academia, symbolizing the powerful outcomes of institutional mentorship.

Reflecting on the symposium’s success, Dr. Ojiakor expressed deep gratitude to the university leadership, the Directorate of Research, the Faculty team, the planning committee, and the partnering organizations. She noted that the symposium laid a strong foundation for establishing the Women in Neuroscience (WiN) – Uganda Chapter.

The event concluded with a unified commitment among participants to strengthen mentorship networks, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and nurture an inclusive neuroscience ecosystem in Uganda and beyond.