Phebean Ajibola Ogundipe
For most of us, none of our childhoods were complete without the Brighter Grammars series. Phebean Ajibola Ogundipe, famously known as PA Ogundipe is a familiar name and guiding light for young English students in Nigeria till date.
Today we celebrate an exemplary model, educationist and creative writer, PA Ogundipe. She was born Phebean Ajibola Itayemi in Esa Oke, Osun State, Nigeria in 1927. She received her elementary education in Esa Oke, secondary education in Queens College, Lagos, university education (M.A. Hons.) in St. Andrews, Scotland and received her post-graduate certificate in Education from the London University.
PA Ogundipe worked as an educationist in Nigerian Government service, first as a teacher of English, then as an administrator in various segments including educational broadcasting, Principal of institutions, National Secretary for UNESCO, Deputy Chief Federal Adviser on Education, and Acting Director in the Federal Ministry.
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As an educationist, she co-authored the Brighter Grammar series and the New Practical English for Senior Secondary Schools. As a creative writer, PA Ogundipe wrote ‘Nothing So Sweet’ which won First Prize in a British Council competition; several short stories which were broadcasted by the B.B.C; Folktales & Fables published by Penguin Books, short stories included in two recent anthologies and Up-Country Girl, an autobiography.
Up-Country Girl is the story of an African girl from a rural farming community, and the notable achievements and developments in her life, which coincided with many national events. Interwoven into her story are PA Ogundipe’s personal views as well as the many years of her professional career and family life.
Up-Country Girl was originally published in 2005. The book is seen as a truthful portrayal of the African culture. The 340-page book is currently available on Amazon and Google books. It is so much more than a biography, delving into various societal topics.
Given all her roles and accomplishments, she was indeed a trailblazer. We are honored to have been part of her journey.
To get a glimpse of the writing legend’s life, grab a copy of the Up-Country girl and share some thoughts with us. We are waiting.