OWSD Trains Members On Effective Grantsmanship Strategies

Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Umudike Branch, has charged its members to embrace persistence, teamwork, mentorship, and excellence in their pursuit of research funding. This call was made during a grantsmanship workshop held recently at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia State. The workshop was part of the organization’s continued efforts to enhance women’s participation in scientific innovation and national development.

Declaring the workshop open, the Coordinator of the OWSD Umudike branch, Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka, encouraged members not to give up on their ambitions but to “always give their dreams a second chance.” She described the group’s members as independent-minded, innovative, and self-driven women who have made leadership both fulfilling and rewarding.

Prof. Onwuka, commended the executives and members for their unwavering support. She attributed the branch’s success during her tenure to teamwork and collective effort, noting that several milestones were achieved through unity and dedication.

In her valedictory speech, Prof. Onwuka expressed pride in the resilience and accomplishments of the Umudike Branch, emphasizing that the group’s growth is a testament to the commitment of its members. She announced that the branch elections will hold on Thursday, October 30, 2025, while the 7th OWSD General Assembly is scheduled for November 3–7, 2025, in Bogotá, Colombia.

She urged members to take advantage of the upcoming international conference for professional growth and networking, adding that “science is our voice, and excellence must be our brand.”

Delivering the keynote lecture entitled; “Effective Grantmanship: Strategies for Developing and Writing Competitive Research Grant Proposals,” a Community Nutritionist, Dr. Charles Chiaka Nkwoala stressed the need for researchers to develop the right mindset, structure, and strategy when applying for grants. He explained that effective grant writing begins with concept development and the ability to link one’s research to real-world challenges.

Dr. Nkwoala emphasized that researchers must ensure their proposals align with the funder’s vision, noting that “the goal of a grant is to support scientific advancement and address global problems.” He advised participants to carry out self-assessments and ensure that their research ideas match funding priorities before submitting applications.

He lamented the weak culture of mentorship between senior and junior researchers in Nigeria, warning that it hinders scientific growth in the country. He called for stronger collaboration, guidance, and knowledge sharing to bridge this gap and strengthen the research ecosystem.

The keynote speaker also highlighted the importance of networking, urging participants to attend academic and professional conferences for meaningful engagement rather than mere attendance.

Nkwoala further advised researchers to have their proposals reviewed by senior colleagues before submission to enhance their quality and competitiveness.

Meanwhile, members of the OWSD Umudike Branch have expressed appreciation to the executive members for their dedication, innovative leadership, and numerous capacity-building programmes.
Dr. Oluomachi Nancy Uchenna of the Department of Biochemistry, MOUAU, in her appreciation message, commended Prof. Onwuka’s led executive visionary leadership and inspiring mentorship, reaffirming the members’ commitment to sustaining the organization’s mission.

Present at the event were the Branch Secretary, Dr. Ann Kanu; Public Relations Officer, Dr. Rose Ogechi Obiozor; Treasurer, Dr. Ngozi Achi; Financial Secretary, Prof. Uchechi Obike; Assistant Secretary, Dr. Pearl Amadi; Project Officer, Dr. Jane Nwaekpe; and Assistant PRO, Mrs. Obigaeri Chimaraoke, among others.