Successful breastfeeding depends on the wider culture making it easier.

On Saturday, August 29, 2026, Dr. Amaka Nnamani, Class of 2000, delivered a presentation titled “It Takes a Village, Not Just a Mother: Reimagining How We Support Breastfeeding” during DIAA’s monthly Knowledge Sharing Series.

The presentation produced many lessons.

1. Breastfeeding Is a Community Responsibility

Breastfeeding happens between a mother and a baby, but the conditions that determine whether it succeeds are created by many people.

Dr. Nnamani explained that partners, grandparents, relatives, friends, employers, doctors and the wider community can strengthen or weaken a mother’s ability to breastfeed.

A partner can help with household tasks, family members can encourage rather than criticise. Employers can provide privacy and safe storage for expressed milk.

These actions remove some of the physical and emotional pressure from the mother.

Breastfeeding works better when the people around the mother make it easier.

2. Colostrum Is Valuable and Newborns Don’t Routinely Need Water

Dr. Nnamani challenged two breastfeeding myths.

The first is that colostrum, the thick first milk produced after birth, is dirty and should be discarded. She described colostrum as concentrated immune protection for the newborn and explained why it is called the baby’s first vaccine.

The second is the belief that a newborn needs water, glucose water or herbal drinks before the mother’s milk fully comes in.

She explained that breast milk already supplies a newborn’s hydration needs and that unnecessary liquids may expose the baby to infection or disturb the body’s fluid balance.

Traditions should be respected, but we shouldn’t preserve practices that have been shown to be harmful.

3. Mothers Need Support, Not Guilt

Some women can’t produce enough milk. Some experience delayed milk production after a caesarean section. Others face medical or emotional circumstances that make exclusive breastfeeding difficult.

Breastfeeding has important benefits, but motherhood shouldn’t be a competition over who can suffer the most. A mother needs accurate information, realistic support and the freedom to make an informed decision about what is possible for her and her baby.

Advocacy should give women better options, not another reason to feel inadequate.

4. Working Mothers Need Support Systems

Dr. Nnamani described how short maternity leave, lack of pumping spaces, inadequate refrigeration and rigid working conditions can make continued breastfeeding very difficult.

A woman may want to breastfeed and find that her workplace makes it impossible.

This is where employers and policymakers become part of the breastfeeding village.

A private space for expressing milk, reasonable breaks, flexible work arrangements and safe refrigeration makes a difference. Maternity leave and paternity leave can give families time to establish routines and share responsibilities during the most demanding early weeks.

When workplaces are designed as though employees never become parents, mothers are forced to solve a system problem individually.

5. We Need to Update the Traditional Support System

Dr. Nnamani discussed omugwo, the Igbo tradition in which a mother or older female relative supports a woman after childbirth.

Her point was that African communities already have a support system, but the challenge is to preserve the care and shared responsibility while updating practices that are based on outdated information.

Grandmothers and aunties can become powerful breastfeeding advocates when they understand why early breastfeeding, colostrum and exclusive breastfeeding matter. Fathers can become active partners. Children can grow up seeing breastfeeding as ordinary rather than strange.

Culture isn’t fixed. It changes when people learn, discuss and do something differently.

Memorable Quote from the Presentation

“Culture is written by the people around the mother, not by the mother alone.”

Technology has become so familiar that we barely think about what makes it work.

We make video calls, stream movies, use AI, send files across continents and access information within seconds.

Behind these simple actions is a vast system of radio frequencies, microchips, fibre optic cables, data centres and communication networks.

On Saturday, April 25, 2026, Engr Uzodimma Odimuko, Class of 2000, revealed this technological system to DIAA members through his presentation “Beyond the Handset: Scaling Networks to Connect Machines and Intelligence“.

Here are five lessons from the presentation.

1. Successful Companies Continue to Adapt

Nokia is remembered by many people as one of the companies that dominated the mobile phone industry.

Uzo explained that Nokia had operated in industries such as paper and rubber before becoming one of the world’s major telecommunications companies.

The ability to change is important.

A company can become very successful at one technology and still struggle when the market changes. Nokia experienced this when smartphones transformed the mobile phone industry.

The company lost its dominant position in handsets, but Nokia did not disappear. It shifted its attention to telecommunications infrastructure, networking equipment and cloud technology.

Past success gives us experience and resources. It does not guarantee future relevance.

Markets change. Customer behaviour changes. Technology changes.

We have to keep watching what is happening around us and develop the ability to respond before change makes our existing skills or business models less valuable.

2. The Technology We Use Every Day Depends on Enormous Infrastructure

A smartphone appears simple when we hold it in our hands.

But the system behind it is not simple.

Uzo explained how telecommunications begins with the electromagnetic spectrum. Governments regulate this spectrum and allocate frequencies to telecommunications companies and other users.

Those frequencies allow information to travel wirelessly.

Then there are microchips.

Modern chips contain billions of tiny electronic switches known as transistors. These transistors form the logic gates that allow computers and other electronic devices to process information.

The cloud is sometimes described as though information floats around the internet. Uzo explained that the cloud consists of physical infrastructure: huge data centres containing servers, storage equipment and networking systems.

These data centres are connected across countries and continents through high capacity networks, including submarine fibre optic cables running along the seabed.

When you send a WhatsApp message from Lagos to someone in London or New York, several layers of infrastructure are involved.

What appears effortless to you depends on decades of scientific research, massive investments and technological equipment spread across continents.

3. Microchips Have Become Part of Global Politics

Advanced computer chips contain billions of microscopic transistors.

Uzo discussed ASML, the Dutch company that produces the extreme ultraviolet lithography systems used in manufacturing the world’s most advanced semiconductors.

That technology has become important because advanced chips power AI systems, telecommunications infrastructure, military technology, data centres and many other critical industries.

Countries have started treating access to semiconductor technology as an issue of national security.

The United States and some of its allies have restricted China’s access to certain advanced chipmaking technologies as competition between the two countries expands into artificial intelligence.

This tells us something about the modern economy.

Resources that determine national power are changing.

Oil, minerals, factories and military equipment are still important. Computing power, semiconductors, AI, telecommunications infrastructure and data are increasingly important too.

Technology is now shaping international politics as much as international politics is shaping technology.

4. The Next Communication Revolution Will Connect Machines

3G made mobile internet possible.

4G helped services such as YouTube, Instagram, Spotify and other data intensive applications become part of everyday life.

5G is taking communications in another direction.

Mining companies can operate enormous autonomous trucks. Ports can automate parts of their operations. Warehouses can use autonomous mobile robots to move goods.

These machines need to communicate quickly with other machines and computer systems.

The future of telecommunications extends far beyond people making calls or browsing the internet.

Factories, vehicles, robots, sensors, ports, mines and other infrastructure will increasingly communicate through networks.

The handset may eventually become only one small part of a much larger connected world.

5. Young People Need Depth, Curiosity and Strong Foundations

Uzo mentioned subjects like data science, networking, cybersecurity and DevOps as areas young Dorityans should study if they want careers in the global technology industry.

He advised young people to choose an area of study and build deep knowledge in that area instead of trying to pursue everything at the same time.

New courses, certifications, programming languages and career opportunities appear every week.

Trying to learn everything can produce shallow knowledge of many subjects.

Curiosity helps us explore. Focus allows us to develop expertise.

Much of the science behind Uzo’s presentation could be traced back to concepts taught in secondary school physics.

Students may sometimes wonder why they have to learn subjects that appear disconnected from their future careers.

Years later, those same concepts may become the foundation for understanding telecommunications, engineering, computing or another profession.

Memorable Quote from the Presentation

“Learn every day.”

DIAA Member’s Corner contains 21 alumni profiles, 238 interview questions and almost 11,000 words of answers.

Those numbers tell us something about the section.

The Numbers

There are currently 21 featured members representing 14 graduation classes.

Together, they have answered 238 questions, an average of 11.3 questions per interview. The median is 10 questions, while individual interviews range from 9 to 15 questions.

Their answers contain about 10,878 words, giving an average of exactly 518 words per member.

The earliest graduation class represented is 1997. The most recent is 2018.

Who was featured first?

The first featured member is Ugochinyere Nkemdirim, Class of 2013. She was featured in May 2019. The newest featured member is  Professor Chinelo Ezeocha, Class of 1997. She was featured in August 2026.

Longest Interviews

The five longest interviews are:

1. Ikechukwu Uzoma: 2,045 words across 10 questions, averaging 204.5 words per answer.
2. Chimdi Ifeakanwa: 1,298 words across 15 questions, averaging 86.5 words per answer.
3. Professor Chinelo Ezeocha: 1,069 words across 10 questions, averaging 106.9 words per answer.
4. Uzoma Ekwebelem: 993 words across 10 questions, averaging 99.3 words per answer.
5. Chijioke Okogbue: 687 words across 15 questions, averaging 45.8 words per answer.

Ikechukwu Uzoma’s answers account for 18.8% of all the words written by featured members.

Who gave the longest single answer?

The record belongs to Chimdi Ifeakanwa.

His answer to the question, “Which of your project was the most challenging and why?” contained approximately 331 words.

He described his work on an early SAP deployment using IA-64 bit systems.

Professor Ezeocha gave detailed answers to most questions, but none displaced Chimdi’s record.

Who was asked the most questions?

Three members jointly hold the record with 15 questions each:

• Shalonda Ofoegbu
• Chijioke Okogbue
• Chimdi Ifeakanwa

Dike Ndukwe and Okechukwu Nwankwo follow with 14 questions each.

Ujuka Iloabuchi and Ugochinyere Nkemdirim received the fewest questions, with nine each.

Which graduation class appears most often?

• 1997: 4 members
• 1999: 1 member
• 2000: 3 members
• 2001: 1 member
• 2002: 2 members
• 2004: 1 member
• 2007: 1 member
• 2009: 1 member
• 2011: 2 members
• 2012: 1 member
• 2013: 1 member
• 2014: 1 member
• 2017: 1 member
• 2018: 1 member

The Class of 1997 is the most represented class with four members.

The Class of 2000 follows with three.

Together, these two classes provide seven of the 21 featured members, exactly one third of all Member’s Corner profiles.

Member’s Corner leans towards earlier graduates

Twelve of the 21 featured members graduated between 1997 and 2004.

That is about 57.1% of all profiles.

More members of the younger generation need to feature.

If you’re a member of the 2015 to 2026 sets, this is an opportunity to introduce yourself to DIAA members.

To feature, fill this form: https://dorityalumni.org/members-corner-interest-form/

What do the interviews keep talking about?

The questions change from one member to another, but several subjects appear repeatedly.

• All 21 members were asked a question that allowed them to give advice, guidance or some form of mentorship.
• Around 20 members discussed memories of Dority or the influence the school had on them.
• At least 16 members discussed how they would describe themselves.
• Around 17 members discussed achievements, awards or important professional milestones.
• Around 17 members discussed motivation, inspiration or what influenced their choices.
• About 15 members discussed subjects, causes or areas of work they care deeply about.
• Around 12 members discussed their future plans.

The advice question may be the most important one

Every featured member was given an opportunity to give advice.

Every interview eventually asks a similar question: What have you learnt that could help someone coming after you?

This could be the most important aspect of Member’s Corner beyond profiling members.

Would you like to be featured in Member’s Corner?

To indicate interest, fill this short form: https://dorityalumni.org/members-corner-interest-form/

Member’s Corner takes a closer look at Dority International Alumni Association members. This month, August 2026, features Professor Chinelo Ezeocha from Class of 1997.

Chinelo Vanessa Ezeocha is a dedicated academic, researcher, and mentor in in Food Science and Technology, with extensive experience in teaching, research, innovation, and community service. 

She is a 1997 graduate of DISS and holds B.Sc., M.Sc., and PhD degrees in Food Science and Technology. A recipient of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) Fellowship, she completed Advanced Science Training at the Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) in Montpellier, France, and served as a Visiting Researcher at CORAF/WECARD in Dakar, Senegal.

She began her career at the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, where she rose to the rank of Senior Research Officer. In 2015, she joined Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU), where she progressed through the academic ranks to become a Professor of Food Science and Technology. She is currently on sabbatical leave at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

Professor Ezeocha is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology, a Certified Food Scientist (CFS), and a member of several other related professional bodies.

When did you first become interested in Food Science and Technology, and why did you choose it as a career?

As a child I had always been very selective when it comes to food, I always complained about the monotonous diet at home and when I did, my mum would ask me to go to the kitchen and fix the so called special diet myself. So I always found myself in the kitchen experimenting with recipes, some of which turned out great, while some others were nasty.

When it was time to choose what to study, I knew I wanted to do something related to food which was completely against what my parents wanted for me. I discussed my passion with my uncle who then advised me to go for Food Science and Technology since I performed well in my sciences and mathematics.

He helped me convince my parents and that was how my journey in Food Science and Technology started. Since then, I decided to work hard to prove to my parents that my career choice was the right one for me and I am happy that they later agreed with me.

What important lessons did you learn during your time at the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike?

My journey in the research world started at National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, where I learnt how to identify practical challenges facing farmers, processors and consumers and develop innovative solutions. I also learnt patience, perseverance, how to pay attention to details while working with data and how to collaborate and work within a multidisciplinary team.

I was also exposed to a lot of trainings and short courses such as the ones organized by IITA, CIRAD, Wageningen University etc. The years I spent in NRCRI were my formative years which laid the solid foundation on which I stand today.

What were the most significant challenges on your journey to becoming a professor?

The greatest challenge on my journey to becoming a Professor was time management. It was not easy balancing the demands of teaching, research and family responsibilities.

Another challenge was working in an environment where research infrastructure and funding were usually inadequate. This pushed me to become resourceful, collaborate with colleagues from better equipped institutions and seek for funding opportunities, which were very competitive, to strengthen my research and professional development.

Despite these challenges I faced, perseverance, mentorship and the passion for advancing knowledge kept me motivated.

How does your research in food processing, preservation and value addition improve the lives of ordinary households, farmers and entrepreneurs?

My research is aimed at improving food security, nutrition and livelihoods. By developing simple, affordable and sustainable processing technologies and value-added products, my research contributes to the reduction of post-harvest losses, extension of shelf life and improvement in the quality and safety of food products made from locally available crops.

These can increase the economic value of these crops and minimize waste for farmers. I always ensure that my research work always translate into real benefits for communities through improved nutrition, increased income and sustainable food systems.

How did the AWARD Fellowship and your research experiences in France and Senegal influence your professional development?

The African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) fellowship was a transformative milestone in my professional development. It equipped me with leadership, mentorship and proposal writing skills, enabling me to build stronger research collaborations and compete more effectively for research funding.

Through the advanced science training, I was exposed to state-of-the-art research facilities and cutting-edge analytical techniques. These experiences have shaped my approach to research and teaching.

They inspired me to pursue excellence, foster collaborations, mentor young scientists and conduct research that benefit my community.

What challenges have you encountered as a woman working in agricultural research and academia, and how did you overcome them?

One of the greatest challenges I encountered as a working woman was balancing the demands of teaching, research, mentorship, and administrative duties with family and personal responsibilities simultaneously, often under serious time constraints.

Most times, I had to work extra hard to establish credibility and demonstrate my capabilities above my male colleagues.

Mentorship by senior colleagues, participation in initiatives such as AWARD and my international experiences gave me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. By remaining resilient, maintaining high professional standards and focusing on research that addressed real societal needs, I was able to build a rewarding career.

Today, I am passionate about mentoring young women scientists, encouraging them to believe in their abilities, that with determination, integrity and hard work, they can overcome barriers.

You have supervised many undergraduate and postgraduate students. What principles guide your approach to teaching and mentorship?

I have always believed that education is not only about imparting knowledge but also inspiring curiosity, critical thinking and innovation.

So I try to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas and develop confidence in their abilities.

I encourage my students to think independently and equip them with what it takes to become problem solvers, effective communicators, team players and future leaders. One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing my former students excel in the real world after graduation.

I met one of my students in Italy during one of my industrial visits and I was very happy when his supervisor was speaking highly of him. Such achievements reaffirm my belief in mentorship.

What have you learnt from training master bakers, women’s groups, young people and entrepreneurs to develop products from indigenous crops?

Training these various groups of people has taught me that scientific knowledge has its greatest value when it is translated into practical solutions that improve people’s lives and livelihoods.

This helped me to realize that innovation must be pertinent to local needs and that capacity building is as important as technology development.

I also learnt that the most successful innovations are those developed by combining scientific expertise with local experience because they usually give rise to practical, affordable and culturally acceptable solutions.

You mentioned Mrs. Zovannah Onumah’s influence on you as a student. Was there another person, teacher or experience at Dority that significantly influenced your future?

The collective influence of the teachers and values promoted at Dority laid the foundation for my future. However, the teachers that had the most significant influence were Monsieur Abosi Mukete and Mr. Moses Ineh.

Monsieur Abosi Mukete taught us how fun learning a new language could be, he taught us nice songs and we also acted drama in French. Those experiences gave me the confidence and open mind I needed during my sojourn in non-English speaking countries.

Mr. Moses Ineh taught us discipline which is one of the principles that has guided my academic and professional journey.

The JETS club competition we went for in Ogun State was what triggered my interest in science, and I remain grateful for such experiences.

What advice would you give to Dority students and younger alumni who want to build meaningful careers in the agriculture and food industry?

My advice to Dority students and younger alumni is to pursue their dreams with purpose, curiosity and perseverance.

They should first build a strong academic foundation and never stop learning since technology is constantly evolving, they should remain open to new ideas and innovations.

They should also work hard, remain resilient, seek mentors and build meaningful professional networks, collaborate and take advantage of internships, research opportunities and professional development programmes that will broaden their experience.

Most importantly, they should use their knowledge to improve their community.

Would you like to be featured in Member’s Corner?

To indicate interest, please fill this short form: https://dorityalumni.org/members-corner-interest-form/

It takes less than 2 minutes to complete.