ABOUT ME

About Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau

Education Leader. Policy Strategist. Systems Thinker.

Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau is a globally respected education policy consultant, systems thinker, researcher, and advocate for transformational learning in Africa.

For more than two decades, she has dedicated her career to improving educational outcomes through innovative policies, strategic leadership, and impactful programs that prepare learners for the demands of the 21st century.

Her expertise spans education policy, curriculum innovation, STEM education, leadership development, teacher capacity building, and institutional transformation.

Driven by a passion for equity and excellence, Dr. Salau collaborates with governments, educational institutions, international organizations, and private-sector stakeholders to design solutions that create lasting impact.

Our Vision

To build an Africa where every learner has access to quality, innovative, and transformative education that unlocks their full potential.

Our Mission

To advance educational excellence through policy innovation, strategic leadership, STEM integration, research, and partnerships that drive sustainable development across Africa.

Professional Journey

Dr. Salau earned her doctorate in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning from University at Buffalo, State University of New York , alongside two master’s degrees from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree from Fordham University. She is also a recipient of the prestigious LAI Research Award from University at Buffalo, State University of New York.

Through her research, publications, and international engagements, she continues to champion transformative education and prepare young people across Africa for the opportunities of the future. 

Her work has positioned her as a trusted voice in global conversations around education transformation and future-ready learning.

Global Recognition and Impact

Dr. Salau has shared her expertise at renowned institutions and platforms including:

  • National Science Teachers Association Conference, Denver (2024)
  • United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, 68th Conference (2024)
  • STE(A)M Innovation and Future Africa Symposium, Harvard University (2022)
  • Graduate Student Conference, University of Illinois (2022)
  • Graduate School of Education Research Symposium, University at Buffalo (2022)
  • IEEE Integrated STEM Education Conference, Princeton University (2019)
  • Global Women in STEM Leadership Summit, Atlanta (2019)
  • GESS Leaders in Education Summit, Lagos (2019)
  • Ministry of Education Policy Stakeholders Workshop, Abuja (2017)

Her contributions continue to influence educational policy, STEM integration, and innovative learning practices across Africa and beyond.

Leadership & Social Impact

As Founder of ELIA Africa and former leader of Carisma4U Educational Foundation, Dr. Salau has championed initiatives that expand access to quality education, empower girls and underserved communities, and strengthen educational opportunities for young people.

Through programs such as STEAM UP Kwara, she continues to inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and changemakers.

 

Awards

Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions to government, education, research, innovation, and social development. Some of her notable recognitions include:

  • LAI Research Excellence Award (2023) – Learning and Instruction Department, Graduate School of Education, University at Buffalo, SUNY.
  • GSE Dean’s Scholarship for Educational Diversity and Excellence (2019–2020) – University at Buffalo.
  • Best Advocate for Innovation in Education (Female) (2021 and 2022) – Association of Nigeria Software Testers.
  • Includer Award (2022) – Nigerian Society of Engineers.
  • Edutech Reformer Award (2019) – Africa Edutech Conference.
  • Outstanding Individual Achievements and Exemplary Contributions towards Education in Africa (2022) – International Internship University.
  • Outstanding Leadership Award (2020) – UniCaribbean Business School.
  • Achievement/Peace Ambassador Award (2022) – 1000 Peace Ambassadors of Nigeria.

    These recognitions reflect her commitment to advancing educational research, promoting innovation in teaching and learning, and creating opportunities for young people across Africa.
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Certificates & Fellowships

The website mentions some global affiliations but does not list these credentials:

  • HP Cambridge Partnership for Education EdTech Fellowship.
  • MIT New Ventures Leadership and Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme (2018).
  • STEM Certification (Blockchain Credential) – STEM.org (2018).
  • Permanent Mathematics Secondary Educator License – New York State.
  • Earned Income Accelerator for Non-Profits – +Acumen.
  • Moving Worlds Institute Fellowship.

Professional Society Membership

  • International Institute of Business Analysis
  • American Society of Safety Engineers
  • Society of Women Engineers
  • American Chemical Society
  • American Educational Research Association
  • STEM Education for Sustainable Development (STEM4SD) global focus group- part of the Smithsonian Science Education Center.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau?

Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau is a globally respected education policy consultant, systems thinker, researcher, and advocate for transformational learning in Africa. With over two decades of experience, she works with governments, institutions, and organizations to drive educational innovation, policy reform, and leadership development.

ELIA Africa (Education, Leadership, Innovation, and Advancement Africa) is a nonprofit organization founded by Dr. Salau to promote quality education, leadership development, innovation, and opportunities for underserved communities across Africa.

Yes. Dr. Salau offers consulting and advisory services to governments, educational institutions, development organizations, NGOs, foundations, and private-sector organizations seeking to improve educational outcomes and strengthen learning systems.

Dr. Salau collaborates with:

  • Government Ministries and Agencies
  • Educational Institutions
  • Development Organizations
  • International NGOs
  • Corporate Organizations
  • Foundations and Philanthropic Institutions
  • Research and Policy Institutes

Yes. Dr. Salau works with local, regional, and international organizations committed to advancing education, innovation, leadership, and sustainable development.

Yes. Customized workshops, leadership training, educator development programs, and capacity-building sessions can be designed to meet the specific needs of organizations, institutions, and teams.

Yes. Consultation requests can be submitted through the Contact page. A member of the team will review your request and schedule an initial discussion where appropriate.