In a groundbreaking achievement for Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Dr. (Mrs.) Joy Erere Anho has been appointed as the institution’s new Deputy Rector, making history as the first woman to hold this position since the Polytechnic’s founding. Her appointment by the Governing Council represents not only a personal milestone but also a pivotal moment for the Polytechnic.
This significant achievement is a reflection of Dr. Anho’s exemplary leadership, dedication, and numerous contributions to the Polytechnic’s academic and administrative development. Over the years, she has established herself as a distinguished leader, excelling in teaching, research, and administrative roles.
A Distinguished Academic Career
Born on December 26, 1970, in Ibrede, Delta State, Dr. Joy Anho, wife of Chief Nathaniel Ese Lucky Anho, has had a remarkable academic career spanning several decades. She earned her PhD in Mass Communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 2018, after obtaining a Master’s degree from the same university in 2006. In addition to her postgraduate achievements, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Delta State University, Abraka, and an OND from Auchi Polytechnic. Her educational journey, which began at Emore Grammar School, Oleh, is marked by outstanding achievements and a commitment to academic excellence.
Dr. Anho is an active member of professional organizations, including the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE), reflecting her commitment to advancing both her profession and academia.
Steady Career Growth
Dr. Anho began her career at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, in 2004 as an Assistant Lecturer. Through hard work and commitment, she steadily rose through the ranks, achieving the position of Principal Lecturer in 2019. Her progression is a testament to her dedication to academic excellence and her impactful contributions to the institution’s success.
Her teaching and research focus on mass communication, and she has produced numerous scholarly works over the years. Dr. Anho’s research has covered topics such as media coverage of health issues, citizen journalism, and the role of media in cultural preservation, all of which have made her a notable figure in academic circles.
Administrative Leadership
In addition to her academic credentials, Dr. Anho has excelled in various administrative roles that have prepared her for her new position as Deputy Rector. She served as Head of the Mass Communication Department from 2017 to 2020, where she successfully led key initiatives that enhanced both the curriculum and facilities.
Dr. Anho has also served on multiple important committees within the Polytechnic, such as the Academic Board, Curriculum Review Committee, and the Appointment and Promotion Committee. Her role as the Congregation Representative on the Governing Council further underscores her dedication to the Polytechnic’s governance and advancement.
A Visionary Leader
Dr Anho’s appointment as Deputy Rector comes at a critical time for Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, as the institution seeks to strengthen its reputation as a centre of academic excellence. With her vast academic and administrative experience, she is well-positioned to provide visionary leadership in this new role.
Following her appointment, Dr. Anho expressed her gratitude to the Governing Council and pledged to work toward the continued growth and development of the Polytechnic. She views her appointment as not only an achievement but also an opportunity to inspire more women to break barriers in academia.
Contributions Beyond Academia
Dr. Anho’s influence extends beyond her work at the Polytechnic. She has served as a resource person for the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) during accreditation visits and has been a guest lecturer for the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Her participation in national conferences and workshops, such as those organized by the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), has further established her as a thought leader in the field of communication.
Scholarly Impact on a Global Scale
Dr. Anho’s research and publications address critical societal issues from a communication perspective. She has authored numerous papers on topics ranging from media ethics to health communication, providing valuable insights into the media’s role in public health, including her research on COVID-19 coverage in Nigerian newspapers.
Her academic interests also include the media’s impact on cultural and social values, as evidenced by her research on the intersection of media and cultural preservation in Nigeria. This broad approach has positioned Dr. Anho as a well-rounded scholar with a global perspective.
Notable publications by Dr. Anho include:
– “Newspaper Coverage of Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) in Nigeria” (2021)
– “Citizen Journalism Practice in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges” (2020)
– “Communication Components in a Dance Performance: Analysis of Ema Royal Dance of Ughelli Kingdom in Delta State, Nigeria” (2020).
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Joy Erere Anho takes on her historic role as the first female Deputy Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, she brings with her decades of experience, a passion for education, and a commitment to academic excellence. Her appointment is not just a milestone for the Polytechnic but a significant moment for women in academia, and it is expected that her leadership will guide the institution to even greater heights.
With her strong academic background, extensive administrative expertise, and visionary approach, Dr. Anho is set to leave a lasting legacy at Delta State Polytechnic and inspire future generations of students and scholars alike.
