MAAUN Group of Universities has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Open University (lOU) in Gambia for the development of joint research projects and publications.
The partnership involves Maryam Abacha American University located in Nigeria and Niger Republic, Franco British International University (FBIU) based in Kaduna, as well as the IOU in Gambia.
The virtual MoU signing aimed to promote academic, scientific and cultural cooperation among the four institutions.
Professor Abubakar Sadiq from the Institute of Africa Higher Education, Research and Innovation, who facilitated the session, provided an overview of the MoU, while highlighting its significance to the parties involved.
He emphasized the need for signing the documents, stating that there has never been a better time to do so, given the promising opportunities that lie ahead.
In his remarks, the President of MAAUN Nigeria, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr who gave an overview of the university, said the partnership also covers students exchange as well as other support to each other’s institutions in activities that will be beneficial to all.
According to him, the partnership signifies a joint commitment to broadening academic opportunities, enhancing resource-sharing, and promoting global cultural understanding.
Dr. Bilal Philips, the Founder of the International Open University (IOU), stated his institution’s dedication to enhancing higher education through collaborative partnerships.
He expressed commitment to being part of the collaboration in the field of higher education, which he said is a goal that aligns with IOU’s vision.
Professor Abdullahi Muhammad Sabo, the Vice Chancellor of FBIU, Kaduna, lauded the potential impact of the partnership on the educational landscape of Northern Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that the MoU would unify and energize efforts to provide more educational opportunities in Northern Nigeria, where a large youth population is eager for such initiatives.
In his remarks, Dr. Sameer Khan, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of IOU, conveyed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that IOU has developed a global staff body enriched by international experts from various cultures.
Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar, the Vice President of Administration at MAAUN, Nigeria, also commented on the significance of the MoU, stating that it is timely and showcases the commitment of the institutions to promote scientific research.
He urged the institutions to follow the MoU’s scope religiously, stressing that the MoU will enhance academic excellence, improve innovation pathways, and foster 21st-century teaching and learning.
Vice President Dr. Shuaibu Tanko, representing MAAUN Niger, offered a brief overview of his university, highlighting its achievements in international collaboration and its memberships in various organizations.
Attendees at the meeting included Mr. Bemdoo Agwaza, the Registrar of FBIU, Engr. Bashir Garba, the Head of MAAUN International Office, as well as members of the MAAUN Corporate Communications and Protocol Unit.