Adetola Salau, special assistant on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education in Lagos State, has recently completed her doctoral programme at Buffalo State University in the United States of America. She obtained her doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning.
In addition to her role as a special assistant, Salau also serves as the senior special assistant on education to the executive Governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. She took to her WhatsApp status to announce the exciting news, expressing her gratitude to God and proclaiming “Hallelujah is my song!” during her graduation week.
Salau attributed her academic journey to the inspiration and legacy of her parents, Professor A.T. Salau and O.A. Salau, who were esteemed researchers and intellectuals. She expressed a deep longing for her late father, wishing he could have witnessed her achievement and shared in her joyous moment. She fondly imagined him blessing her in Yoruba and expressing his pride in her accomplishments.
With her newfound knowledge and experience, Salau aims to continue in her parents’ footsteps and dedicate her life to serving humanity. Her focus lies in addressing the critical issue of providing quality education to African children, ensuring their preparedness for the future and fostering economically thriving communities across the continent.
Her educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Fordham University in 1998. She later pursued a Master’s in Chemical Engineering at Syracuse University in 2001 and further studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Through her inspiring story, Adetola Salau hopes to motivate others to pick up unfinished projects, complete neglected assignments, or remind themselves of their inner strength.