MAAUN Launches Seminar Series on International Relations

The Department of International Relations, Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, on Friday, 15th March, 2024, launched a premier seminar series in a bid to promote hands-on learning among students.

The seminar with a theme: “Exploring the Role of International Organizations in Addressing Global Challenges”, was aimed at exposing students beyond the theoretical principles of the classroom setting to the real-world operations of international organizations (IOs) in facilitating international cooperations and diplomacy among nations.

The grand event which was held at the School of Computing, was attended physically and virtually by students and staff of the university as well as renowned experts in African Politics and International Relations both within and outside Nigeria.

In his presentation, the Director of African Centre for the Study of the United States, University of Pretoria, South Africa who doubled as the President of the African Association of Political Science (AAPS), Prof. Christopher Isike, discussed at length the role of IOs in addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty and conflict.

He used his vast knowledge and wealth of experience to bring to the fore the modus operandi of international organizations in relation to fostering collaboration, coordination and peaceful co-existence between and among countries.

Prof. Isike, a renowned expert in African politics, expressed concern over the unequal nature of the international system especially as it affects Africa, while calling for the establishment of what he referred to as ‘group hegemonic leadership’ consisting of a sub-regional power which will ensure a better regional leadership for Africa.

The facilitator, who took time to share valuable insights and perspectives during the interactive session with the students, acknowledged the role of international organizations in promoting sustainable development and inclusive growth on a global scale.

Earlier in his welcome address, the President, MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, who was represented by the President of MAAUN, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, lauded the department for the initiative, saying the workshop would give the students the opportunity to interact with experts in their field from across the world thereby fostering connection and knowledge sharing for academic development.

Prof. Israr urged the students to make the best use of the opportunity to participate actively and navigate the real world challenges facing their profession.

During the session, the convener of the seminar, who is an International Relations guru from Bayero University, Kano, Dr. Khadija Sanusi Gumbi, while reading the citation of Prof. Isike, described him as one of the leading experts in the field of International Relations in Africa whose contributions to the body of literature would remain indelible for generations.

Dr. Gumbi, a seasoned academic, enjoined the students to face their studies with seriousness while urging them to imbibe the culture of research so as to achieve their desired career goals.

Also in his address, the Dean, School of Social and Management Sciences (SMS), Dr Mahmoud Muktar Saidu, explained the purpose of the seminar and stressed the need for the department to conduct a similar program periodically for the benefit of the students and faculty.

On his part, the Head of the International Relations Department, Dr. Lawan Malami Goni, who briefly explained the objective and importance of the seminar series, said the workshop was designed to explore the successes, limitations and evolving roles of the IOs in the international system.

In his votes of thanks, the Vice President Administration, Dr. Habib Awais Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the organizers of the seminar, especially the Dean of SMS, the Head of IRS department and the Convener of the seminar for their thoughtfulness and unrelenting efforts to ensure the successful conduct of the program.

He equally lauded the Founder of MAAUN, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo for providing the avenue for exploration of knowledge while thanking all the participants for taking their time to attend the historic event.

Highlights of the seminar include, discussion on the paper, group photographs and interactive session, where students actively participated, shared insights and perspectives on the topic presented.