Global Development Studies

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Dr. Adetoun Ilumoka

(She/her)

Sessional Instructor

Global Development Studies

Abbotsford campus

email Adetoun

Biography

Adetoun Ilumoka is currently the Lead on Policy, Social Movements and Knowledge Exchange at the British Columbia Council for International Co-operation.  She has been an active campaigner for social justice and human rights for many years focusing on law reform, international co-operation and gender equality. An accomplished law and policy researcher, she has done extensive work on law and devel opment and peace and security within the framework of international co-operation, making vital linkages between academic research, policy and community rooted initiatives. She is passionate about promoting peace and sustainable development within the context of more equal national and global economic exchange. Dr Ilumoka has taught and mentored numerous young people, working through several local and international academic institutions and networks to advocate for anti-colonial, and transdisciplinary approaches to education and policy making.
 
An accomplished law and policy researcher, she has done extensive work on law and social change and peace and security within the framework of international co-operation, making vital linkages between academic research, policy and community rooted initiatives. She is passionate about promoting peace and sustainable livelihoods within the context of more equal national and global economic exchange. A committed feminist and member of Women, Peace and Security networks, Dr Ilumoka has taught and mentored numerous young people, working through several local and international academic institutions and networks to advocate for anti-colonial, and transdisciplinary approachend.

Education

Ph.D. Law, UBC, Canada
LLM, University of Warwick, UK
BA (Hons) Law, University of Kent at Canterbury, UK

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is built on the belief that meaningful learning occurs through active dialogue, diverse perspectives, and authentic application. Rather than viewing education as a passive transfer of information, I foster a collaborative classroom environment where students actively engage with complex ideas, challenge assumptions, and construct their own understanding. 

I treat the classroom as a dynamic forum for inquiry. Through structured interactive discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and debate, I encourage students to explore issues from multiple viewpoints. Exposing students to varied perspectives helps them develop empathy, broaden their worldview, and appreciate the nuanced nature of real-world challenges. In my courses, every student’s voice contributes to the collective learning experience.

Rather than memorizing isolated facts, students are guided to critically analyze underlying principles, evaluate evidence, and construct well-reasoned arguments. I frame course topics around open-ended, thought-provoking questions that require students to question assumptions and synthesize information. This focus on critical thinking equips students with transferable analytical skills they can apply well beyond the classroom.

Teaching Interests

Adetoun teaches courses in global development studies:

  • GDS 204, Development in the African Continent

Her teaching interests include:

  • Law and colonialism
  • Development theory
  • Human rights and social justice
  • Women, law and social change

Research Interests

Adetoun's research interests include:

  • Law and colonialism
  • Development theory
  • Human rights and social justice
  • Women, law and social change

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Chelsea Skerlak student

One thing I really enjoyed about the GDS program is that it hasn’t sugar-coated any aspect of development. I've also always been drawn to learning how to be a more positive influence in the world and a global citizen, and the GDS program fit all those interests.

  • – Chelsea Skerlak
  •    Global Development Studies major
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