By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Ojaja University, Eiyenkonrin, Ilorin, has partnered with Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, to promote cultural exchange and academic excellence.
The Vice Chancellor of Ojaja University, Prof Jeleel Ojuade stated this in Ilorin while speaking on the sidelines of meeting with delegation from Kashim Ibrahim University to Ilorin Campus of Ojaja varsity.
He explained that the Ojaja University and Kashim Ibrahim varsity will sign MoU on partnership that will boost academic excellence through student and staff exchange programs.
According to him, the collaboration aims to foster cultural understanding, secure funding, and explore partnerships in key areas, enhancing the institutions’ research and development capabilities.
Ojuade pointed out that the partnership will also facilitate cultural exchange, including music, arts, and traditions, promoting mutual understanding and respect among students and staff.
“The programme is a kind of family gathering, because Kashim Ibrahim University, formerly Borno State University just appointed our Chancellor; Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi-Ojaja II, who is the Proprietor of Ojaja University.
“This is a kind of fatherhood giving birth to two babies. If Ojaja University is Ooni’s baby, Kashim Ibrahim is another baby,” he said.
Ojuade pointed out that this is an opportunity for the varsities to leverage and create a partnership that will further synergize the relationship between the Yoruba and the Kanuri people.
He added that the collaboration aligns with efforts to strengthen academic ties and promote national unity through cultural exchange.
Also speaking, Prof. Gutti Babagana, the Vice Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, explained that while sharing the same Chancellor, the two varsities are now brothers.
He highlighted the importance of partnerships in enhancing academic excellence.
Babagana emphasized that collaborations can strengthen research capabilities, promote entrepreneurship, and improve employability skills among students.
He expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Ojaja, adding that it will foster academic excellence and cultural exchange.
“The Ojaja as a private university and Kashim Ibrahim as a State varsity can come together and pull resources.
“The government and Proprietor alone cannot give all that it takes for the Universities,” he said.
Babagana however pointed out that individuals including the Ooni, the Vice President who established Kashim Ibrahim University as a State varsity and Alhaji Mohammad Indimi can use their good office to promote the development of the two institutions. (NAN)