In this interview, we spoke with Public Health Researcher Dr. Olawuyi, who explained her expertise in addressing public health nutrition and transitioning from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho to the US. Dr. Olawuyi, who is currently resident in the US, discusses how her projects help advance public health in different regions of the country.

Could you tell us about your journey and experience in public health nutrition?
Thank you for this opportunity. So, I initially studied food science and technology for my first degree but developed a passion for nutrition through the courses I took during that time. This inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in Human Nutrition. I soon realized that many of the health conditions affecting the world today are food-related and preventable through healthy eating. This understanding motivated me to specialize in public health and community nutrition, as I believe prevention is always better than cure.

I have over a decade of experience in teaching and research, with a specialization in Community and Public Health Nutrition. My work has included leading nutrition interventions, conducting food consumption surveys, and engaging in research aimed at addressing food insecurity and improving health outcomes. Additionally, I have extensive experience in administrative roles, allowing me to blend leadership and research expertise.

What are some key projects you’ve worked on during your career?
I am currently working as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Texas A&M AgriLife Institute, collaborating with Prairie View A&M University on a USDA-ARS funded project, “Produce Prescription to address Food Insecurity among PVAMU Students.” Previously, I served as the Principal Investigator for a Food Consumption and Nutritional Status survey in Ekiti State, Nigeria, and have participated in research focused on childhood nutrition, utilization of traditional and underutilized foods, and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in rural and semi-urban areas of Southwest Nigeria.

Could you share a significant achievement from your academic career?
One of my key achievements was helping establish the Nutrition and Dietetics Program at Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State where I was a pioneer staff member. I was also selected as one of the few nutrition professionals across Nigerian universities to join the Academia and Research Network of the ‘Scaling Up Nutrition’ movement in Nigeria (ARN-SUNN), which was a critical step in advancing public health nutrition research and collaboration in the country. I have been fortunate to receive some scholarships, including the Mashav Scholarship to attend the International Course on Innovations in Women’s Health in Haifa, Israel, in 2018. Additionally, I received the USAID/WISTEM Scholarship to participate in workshops on “Building Capacity of Female Scientists in Data Analysis for Decision Making and Strategic Planning” at the KNUSTLISA Center in Ghana in both April and November of 2019. These opportunities have enriched my skills in data analysis and strategic planning.

How has your teaching experience influenced your research?
Teaching has played a crucial role in shaping my research approach. As a lecturer at both Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and Bowen University, I taught courses such as Community Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, and Research Methods in Nutrition which involved going into neighboring communities to carry out nutrition assessments and education. This experience allowed me to work closely with students and gain valuable insights into the real-world applications of nutrition interventions. It also sharpened my ability to translate research findings into practical strategies for improving community health outcomes.

What do you have to say about the current surge of food insecurity and high rates of malnutrition in Nigeria?
I am currently involved in a project that addresses food insecurity among young people in an underserved community in Texas, USA. From a needs assessment, I found that systemic barriers such as financial limitations, lack of nutritional knowledge, and environmental or policy restrictions significantly hinder the ability to consume balanced diets, despite individual motivations.

While various efforts have been made by the government and other stakeholders, the persistence of food insecurity calls for more innovative and holistic approaches. Drawing inspiration from developed countries, Nigeria can adopt and adapt strategies to combat food and nutrition insecurity effectively.

One key step is the strengthening of food security policies. For instance, programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the U.S. have helped reduce hunger and improve nutrition for low-income families. Nigeria can implement similar social safety nets to address the nutritional needs of vulnerable populations. Expanding food assistance programs and establishing food banks in high-need areas would provide immediate relief.

Additionally, Nigeria can leverage technology to reduce barriers to accessing food assistance, making enrollment easier and more efficient. The government should also prioritize enhancing agricultural productivity by investing in modern farming techniques, providing adequate security for farmers and promoting sustainable practices, which can increase food production and improve food security.

Nutrition education is another critical factor. Educating communities on the importance of balanced diets and the use of local foods, while empowering women with knowledge and resources, can improve household food security and overall health outcomes.

What drives your passion for public health nutrition, and how do you see your work contributing to the field?
My passion stems from a desire to improve community health through evidence-based nutrition interventions. I am particularly interested in using translational and implementation science to prevent diet-related chronic diseases. Through my research and teaching, I hope to contribute to sustainable solutions that address food insecurity, improve dietary behaviors, and enhance overall health outcomes for diverse populations.