Queen Irene Onwuka appointed special envoy for education by International Forum for Peace and Diplomacy
The International Forum for Peace and Diplomacy (IFPD) has appointed Queen Irene Onwuka as Special Envoy for Education, marking a significant milestone in continental efforts to advance educational access and quality across Africa.
The appointment, announced by Dr Tony Ajikpu, Nigeria’s head of IFPD, recognises Onwuka’s transformative work in education, disability inclusion, and peacebuilding through her Queen Irene Onwuka Peace Foundation.
“Across the continent, quality and inclusive education remains essential to empowering young people, reducing inequality, strengthening governance, and fostering innovation,” the release stated.
African leaders champion education, media collaboration at International Peace Forum
“Education is not only a social necessity but a strategic investment in Africa’s future leadership and workforce.”
Queen Irene brings exceptional credentials to her new role. As Executive Director of her foundation, she has overseen large-scale humanitarian programmes that have directly benefited more than 50,000 vulnerable children and internally displaced persons (IDP), students through essential support initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and child protection.
Her mission-driven approach combines strategic leadership with grassroots community engagement, creating hope-centred, child-focused interventions that align with the World Health Organisation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Onwuka’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to understanding the roots of conflict and pathways to peace.
African leaders champion education, media collaboration at International Peace Forum
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and International Relations from Imo State University (2008-2012) and a Master of Arts in Peace and Conflict Resolution (2022-2023) from the same institution.
She is currently pursuing a PhD in Diplomatic History and International Relations, further strengthening her intellectual foundation for diplomatic and educational advocacy.
Her work has earned numerous accolades, including the African Iconic Young Humanitarian Award (2023), recognition among 100 African Change Makers by the African Women Achievers Award (2025), and the Royal title “Gimbiya Gamji” from the Arewa Gamji Emirate Royal Council (2024) for selfless service and community development.
The IFPD appointment positions Queen Irene to amplify her advocacy on a continental scale, championing education as the foundation for Africa’s long-term peace, economic transformation, and sustainable development.
Her proven expertise in stakeholder engagement, partnership development, and women’s empowerment will be instrumental in advancing educational equity across the continent.
As Special Envoy, she is expected to work with governments, international organisations, and civil society to strengthen educational infrastructure, promote inclusive learning environments, and ensure that education serves as a powerful tool for peacebuilding and social cohesion across Africa.
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