In Huambo Province, Angola, Prof. Virginia Lacerda Quartim, the distinguished Dean of José Eduardo dos Santos University, is making history as the country’s only female university head. Elected in a landslide victory in 2021, she secured over 90% of the votes, exemplifying her widespread support within the academic community.
During an exclusive interview with Africa Renewal, Prof. Quartim voiced her impassioned desire to inspire and empower more women, emphasizing the need for women and girls to recognize their capabilities and exhibit confidence in pursuing leadership roles.
A professor of agronomy, Prof. Quartim eloquently articulates the unique perspective that women bring to decision-making processes, enriching them with unparalleled rationality and sensitivity. Stressing the significance of inclusivity, she envisions a harmonious development for the nation through the active participation of women.
Renowned for her direct yet amiable leadership style, Prof. Quartim has garnered immense popularity among both students and faculty. Her colleague, Mr. Max Vicente, lauds her tenacity in advocating for the university’s best interests, a quality that has earned her widespread adoration.
With her profound understanding of the university, cultivated over three decades of teaching, Prof. Quartim is poised to elevate it to greater heights. The José Eduardo dos Santos University, named after the former President of Angola, is a beacon of excellence, offering a diverse array of programs in sciences, humanities, and technology that cater to the educational needs of the Angolan populace.
In a groundbreaking collaboration, the university is partnering with the Angolan government, the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the European Union (EU) to empower women in honey production. This initiative, under UNCTAD’s Transforming4Trade project, not only amplifies gender equality but also contributes to the diversification and competitiveness of value chains, fostering entrepreneurship and global connectivity.
Despite Angola’s relatively progressive stance on women’s participation in top political positions, Prof. Quartim aspires for more women to assume pivotal roles in universities across the country. Her vision extends beyond academic excellence, striving for a university that actively shapes a more equitable and prosperous Angola.
The city of Huambo, where the university is nestled, holds profound historical significance, playing a pivotal role in Angola’s cultural and political tapestry. Despite enduring challenges, the city stands as a symbol of resilience and progress, exemplified by the José Eduardo dos Santos University’s unwavering commitment to education and community development.
Beyond academic pursuits, the university actively engages with the local community, enriching the cultural fabric of Huambo and contributing to its economic development. Emphasizing sustainable and community-based initiatives, the university instils practical skills in its students and actively contributes to the region’s socio-economic growth.
Prof. Quartim’s exemplary leadership encapsulates a balanced focus on the present and an unwavering dedication to envision and build a brighter future for the university and its stakeholders. Her indomitable spirit and vision embody the transformative power of education and female leadership, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Angola.
