MAAUN Hosts Inaugural Career Connect Expo in Partnership with BigTech Agency Limited

Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria on Thursday hosted the first-ever Career Connect Expo in Kano organized by BigTech Agency Limited.

The event with the theme “Bridging the Gap Between Talent and Opportunity”, marked a significant milestone for both the university and the ancient city of Kano.

The expo also aims today nurture the vast potential of students and Nigerian youth in general by connecting their diverse talents with real-world opportunities.

The grand event not only highlighted MAAUN’s commitment to fostering innovation and career development among its students, but also showcased the university’s dedication to bridging the gap between academic excellence and real-world opportunities.

Pitch Competition winner CEO of Slay Belless with Prof. (Dr.) Mohammed Israr

The expo featured an exciting startup pitch competition, where five startups presented their innovative ideas to a panel of judges.

Slay Belless clinched the first position followed by AgroZenith which took second place while ILearn Team came third.

The competition highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of young Nigerians, showcasing their potential to drive future growth and development.

Panel Discussion 1: hosted by Eng. Muhammad Y. Musa with guest speakers Hon. Nazeer Halliru, Saadat Aliyu, Ahmad Muhammad & Bello Kano

Panel Discussion 2: hosted by Ahmad Bature with guest speaker Hon. Yusuf Sharada, Mustapha Umar, & Abubakar Sadiq.

Also, three intensive panel discussions were held during the event, with each session moderated by an industry professional who facilitated discussions on various topics related to innovation and career development.

Panel Discussion 3: hosted by Amina Idris with guest speakers Damilola Oke, Ilyasu Ishaq

In his welcome address, the President of MAAUN, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, expressed happiness that the university hosted the Career Connect Expo which is the first of its kind in Kano.

While highlighting the opportunities it provides for students to engage with top employers and gain valuable industry insights, Prof. Israr stressed the importance of the collaboration with BigTech Agency, noting its role in supporting students’ career growth and enhancing MAAUN’s educational mission.

The event, attended by industry experts, emerging talent, government officials, and community leaders, featured the Kano State Commissioner of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Alhaji Tajo Othman, who was represented by the SSA on ICT, Ibrahim Yusuf Sharada, discussing the role of technology in youths empowerment and Innovation.

Hon. Yusuf Sharada (SSA on ICT)

In his closing remarks, the CEO of BigTech Agency Limited, Ahmad Sagir Koki, expressed his gratitude to the participants, speakers, and MAAUN for organizing the event.

He reiterated the importance of such initiatives, stating, “If we had been having events like this in the state, we would not be where we are today.”

He assured the audience that BigTech Agency will continue to support initiatives that empower students and create more opportunities for the youth.

CEO of BigTech Agency Limited, Ahmad Sagir Koki

The event was attended by other Management staff of the university including the Vice Chancellor, Franco British International University, Kaduna, Prof. Muhammad Sabo, MAAUN’s Vice President Administration, Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar, Director Founder’s Office, Dr. Aliyu Miringa and Head of the International Office, Engr. Muftawu Sanusi, Engr. Bashir Garba, among others.

Other highlights of the occasion included Art exhibition, Life painting, Career counseling, and many more.