Director Science & Tech Bows Out

By Ngozi Dike-Nkemjika

It was a moment of heart-felt expressions, appreciations and encouragements amidst mixed feelings among the staff of the Department of Science and Technology last week, as the out-going Director, Mrs. Rosemary Umana formally hands over the mantle of departmental leadership to the most senior Deputy Director in the Department- Mrs. Christie Ibrahim.

Mrs. Umana who has served in various capacities in the education sector of the FCT became the Director of the Department of Science and Technology in year 2012. She has contributed immensely to the development and advancement of education especially in the Federal Capital Territory through her numerous policy initiatives.

Out-going Director, Mrs. Umana (Right) hands over to Acting Director, Mrs. Christie Ibrahim

Better described as a dogged-spirit Director, she has left a popular slogan of “we can do it” on the lips and hearts of all the staff that have worked with her. Mama, as she is fondly called by all the staff of the department was not just an official boss but one woman who has displayed more of motherly love through prayers, counseling and care to all the staff.

The new Acting Director, Mrs. Christie Ibrahim who took over the seat of leadership was not new in the affairs of education sector. Before she took over, she was a Deputy Director in charge of Science, Technical and Vocational Education-STVE in the Department. As a former principal of one of the science schools under the Department, she is indeed familiar with the school activities and effective ways of achieving academic excellence.

In her remarks immediately after taking over, she expressed deep appreciation to the out-going Director for having given her the opportunity to learn a lot under her leadership. While promising to do her best in moving the department to greater heights, she prayed for God’s wisdom, total support and team work among the staff.

Mrs. Christie Ibrahim is the 3^rd helmsman of the Department since its creation under the Education Secretariat on 23^rd of February, 2009.