Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale, FRSC, FAS, MNI, FAvH, FCSN, FSAN, FPIN, born on 11 January 1962, is a distinguished Nigerian academic and scientist, currently serving as the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan. He hails from Ogun State, Nigeria. Professor Adebowale’s educational journey began at St. Marks Primary School, Oke-Ijaga, Ijebu Igbo, between 1967 and 1972, followed by his secondary education at Ayedaade Grammar School, Ikire, from 1973 to 1978. He earned his B.Sc in Chemistry from the University of Ibadan in 1984, and subsequently obtained his M.Sc in 1986 and Ph.D. in Industrial Chemistry in 1991, both from the same institution.

Professor Adebowale began his academic career as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Ibadan and quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication to teaching and research. By 2006, he was conferred the title of Professor of Industrial Chemistry. His academic contributions extended beyond the University of Ibadan as he also served as a lecturer at the Federal University of Technology, where he influenced many in the field of industrial chemistry.

He has held various significant administrative roles, including serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Ibadan, where he oversaw the faculty’s academic programs, research initiatives, and faculty development. From June 2018 to October 2021, he served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, playing a crucial role in the university’s administration and policy formulation. On 14 October 2021, after a competitive selection process, Professor Adebowale was appointed the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan by the University’s Council Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Chief Dr. John Odigie-Oyegun. He succeeded Professor Abel Olayinka and has since been leading the university into a new era of academic excellence and growth.

As a Professor of Industrial Chemistry, Professor Adebowale’s research primarily focuses on polymer chemistry, environmental chemistry, and the development of sustainable chemical processes. He has authored and co-authored numerous research papers published in national and international journals, significantly contributing to the global body of knowledge in his field. His research and academic influence have made a considerable impact on both the academic community and the industry.

Professor Adebowale is a Fellow of several prestigious organizations, including the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), the Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS), the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (FAvH), the Chemical Society of Nigeria (FCSN), the Science Association of Nigeria (FSAN), and the Polymer Institute of Nigeria (FPIN). He is also a Member of the National Institute (MNI), reflecting his extensive contributions to science and education.

As Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebowale has been instrumental in maintaining the University of Ibadan’s status as a leading institution of higher learning in Africa. His leadership is marked by a commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and the overall development of the university community. Under his administration, the university has implemented several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education, improving infrastructure, and fostering partnerships with other academic institutions and industries.

Professor Kayode Oyebode Adebowale’s life and career continue to inspire many in the academic community and beyond. His unwavering dedication to education, research, and university administration serves as a model for aspiring academics and administrators, leaving a lasting legacy in Nigerian academia.