Building on years of impactful leadership in data science and innovation, our esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Oladipo, has been appointed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Value-Driven Ownership of Data and Accessibility Network (VODAN) Africa, effective April 8, 2025.

In a release published on VODAN’s official website, the renowned academic and data science expert, who has played a pivotal role in the growth and direction of VODAN Africa since its inception, previously served as Executive Director of the organization—formerly known as the Virus Outbreak Data Network. Her appointment as CEO marks a strategic advancement in VODAN’s mission to enable the creation and responsible use of real-time, high-velocity clinical observational patient data from resource-limited communities across the continent.

An accomplished scholar and researcher, Prof. Oladipo is a Professor of Computer Science and a Fellow of the Pan-African Scientific Research Council. She has undergone advanced training in Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, and Data Science from globally respected institutions including the University of Essex (UK), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain), and the University of Oxford (UK).

As the current Vice-Chancellor of TAU, Prof. Oladipo has exemplified visionary leadership in repositioning the university as a hub of academic excellence, particularly within the STEM disciplines. Notably, she led a strategic partnership with the Kwara State Government to upgrade the Omu Aran General Hospital into a teaching hospital—enhancing access to quality medical education and strengthening healthcare delivery in the region.

Prof. Oladipo’s appointment as CEO of VODAN Africa represents a broader affirmation of Africa’s rising leadership in ethical data access, inclusive innovation, and academic excellence. Thomas Adewumi University celebrates this prestigious achievement and remains confident that under Prof. Oladipo’s leadership, VODAN Africa will continue to expand its footprint, impact lives, and champion transformative conversations around data and development across Africa and beyond.