The appointment marks another milestone in her academic and professional career, reflecting her commitment to advancing gender-focused initiatives, leadership development and the empowerment of young people through education, communication and mentorship.
Dunkwu has built a growing record of academic, professional and administrative accomplishments spanning teaching, research, media relations, student development and university administration. At Crawford University, she serves as the coordinator of the university’s media team, where she contributes to strengthening the institution’s public image, media visibility and communication activities.
She also serves as a staff adviser to the Crawford University Debating and Literary Society (CUDALS), working alongside Dr Olusola Aina to mentor and prepare students for national and international debating competitions. Under their guidance, the society has participated in notable platforms, including the All Nigerian Universities Debating Championship (ANUDC) and the Pan African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC).
Through these engagements, Dunkwu supports students in developing critical thinking, public speaking, research, effective communication, and leadership skills, while encouraging intellectual curiosity and confidence beyond the classroom.
Academically, she holds a first degree in Mass Communication from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, and two master’s degrees from the University of Lagos, Akoka, and Lagos State University. She is currently pursuing a PhD at Lagos State University, specialising in Public Relations and Development Communication within the School of Communication.
Her research interests and scholarly contributions span communication, Public Relations, media, gender, and development communication. She has several academic publications to her credit and remains committed to contributing to knowledge and professional practice in these fields.
Dunkwu is a member of several professional bodies, including the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN). She is also a Chartered Member of the Association of Rankings Professionals (ARP) and an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Her professional engagements reflect an understanding of communication as a strategic tool for institutional reputation, public engagement, and social development. Her experience coordinating university media activities, alongside her work in teaching and student mentorship, provides a foundation for contributing to the objectives of the Centre for Gender and Leadership Studies.
In her new role as Deputy Director, she is expected to bring her experience in communication, research, administration and youth development to the advancement of gender and leadership initiatives within the university community.
Her appointment further underscores the importance of integrating gender perspectives into leadership development, academic engagement and institutional programmes, while creating opportunities for students and emerging leaders to build the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to society.
Through her work in academia, professional practice and mentorship, Dunkwu continues to demonstrate a commitment to advancing communication scholarship, strengthening institutional visibility and supporting the next generation of leaders.
