Joana Maduka facts for kids

Joana Maduka, born on May 6, 1941, is a famous Nigerian engineer. She made history as the first woman to become a fellow of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) in 1974. This means she was recognized as a top expert in engineering.

She is also a respected member of other important engineering groups. These include the Institution of Electrical Engineers and the Nigerian Society of Engineers. In 2008, she received a special award called Member of the Order of the Federal Republic. This award recognized her great contributions to Nigeria. She was also the first female president of COREN.

Early Life and School

Growing Up in Nigeria

Joana Maduka was born on May 6, 1941, in Ilesha, Osun State, Nigeria. She was the first child of her parents, Mr. Daniel Dada and Olufunmilayo Layinka. Her family supported her education from a young age.

Her Journey Through Education

Joana started her schooling at Otapete Methodist School. After that, she attended Methodist Girls’ School. In 1955, she went to Queen's School, which was a big step in her education.

She continued her studies at the University of Ife. In 1965, she earned her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in applied physics. She then traveled to Ireland to study further. In 1969, she received her Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in engineering from Trinity College Dublin. In 1966, she also passed a special exam from the Institution of Electrical Engineers. This showed her strong knowledge in the field.

Joana Maduka's Engineering Career

Early Engineering Roles

Joana Maduka began her engineering career in 1965. She worked as a graduate assistant engineer at Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) in Ibadan. From 1965 to 1966, she was also a graduate apprentice. This was in the Engineering Division of Western Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation.

Teaching and Consulting

From 1966 to 1970, Joana shared her knowledge as a lecturer. She taught in the Department of Applied Physics at the University of Ife. In 1970, she joined Leccom Associates. This was a company of consulting engineers. By 1975, she had become the main partner there.

Leading Engineering Organizations

Joana Maduka has held many important leadership roles. In 2016, she became the ninth president of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering. She was the first woman to hold this position. She also founded the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN). This group helps support and encourage women in engineering.

Helping the Environment and Power Sector

In 1993, Joana Maduka started an organization called Friends of the Environment. This group works to improve renewable energy sources. It also helps manage waste and supports women. In 2014, she became the Chairperson of the Power Sector Group. This group was created by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Its goal was to improve Nigeria's power supply.

Personal Life

Joana Maduka is married to Vincent Ifeanyi Maduka. He was a former director general of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). They have four children together. She also has several grandchildren, including Tobi, Ashikodi, Timi, and Osita Maduka.