Professor Bernadine Nsa Ekpenyong is a distinguished Nigerian academic, researcher, epidemiologist, and optometrist with an outstanding career spanning over two decades in teaching, research, public health practice, and academic leadership. She is a Professor in the Department of Public Health at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), where she has made significant contributions to public health education, epidemiological research, and health systems strengthening in Nigeria and beyond.
Professor Ekpenyong obtained her Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from Abia State University. She further advanced her academic and professional training at the University of Calabar, where she earned both a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health (Epidemiology).
Her multidisciplinary academic background has positioned her at the intersection of clinical eye care, epidemiology, biostatistics, and public health research.
With more than twenty years of professional experience, Professor Ekpenyong has built a distinguished career in:
Prior to joining the Department of Public Health, she served in the Department of Ophthalmology, where she contributed significantly to eye health research and clinical training.
Professor Ekpenyong has held several key leadership and administrative positions within the University of Calabar and the wider academic community, including:
Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing research excellence, postgraduate training, and institutional development.
Professor Ekpenyong's research interests span a broad range of public health and epidemiological issues, including:
She has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications in reputable national and international journals. In addition, she has successfully supervised and mentored many postgraduate students at master's and doctoral levels, contributing significantly to capacity building in public health research.
In recognition of her contributions to public health, epidemiology, and optometry, Professor Ekpenyong has received several research grants from local and international institutions and has earned prestigious professional fellowships, including:
These honours reflect her commitment to professional excellence, research innovation, and service to society.
Professor Ekpenyong has played a pivotal role in advancing public health and eye health initiatives in Nigeria. She has been actively involved in the design and implementation of national eye health surveys, vision screening programmes, and advocacy initiatives aimed at improving eye care services and promoting public health awareness. Her work has contributed to evidence-based policy development and the strengthening of health systems, particularly in the areas of eye health and disease prevention.
Through her teaching, research, mentorship, and leadership, Professor Bernadine Nsa Ekpenyong continues to make enduring contributions to public health scholarship, professional development, and community well-being in Nigeria and beyond.
