One of Nigeria’s faith-based institutions, Summit University, Offa (SUN Offa) has formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Higher Education.
Muslim News gathered that the formalisation will assist the institution to solidify its quest to lead innovation in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Drone building and piloting, and Industry 4.0 technologies, among others.
The move underscores the university’s commitment to international collaboration and academic excellence, particularly in emerging technologies.
The initiative was revealed during a courtesy visit to Ambassador Faisal Ebraheem Alghamdi of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Nigeria on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.
Leading the delegation was Chairman of the Governing Council/Pro-Chancellor, Alhaji Rafiu Adisa Ebiti, accompanied by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu; Honourable Kunle Ibrahim, member, SUN Offa Board of Trustees (BOT) & Senior Special Assistant to the President on Legislative Matters; Professor Amidu Sanni (former VC of Fountain University, Osogbo), and Sheikh Muhyideen Hashim, an expert in foreign relations with the Arab world.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised Summit University’s readiness to partner with Saudi Arabian institutions on various emerging technology areas. He advocated engagement to enhance academic and infrastructural development, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the educational experience for students from both nations.
A proposal discussed included the establishment of a dedicated College of Arabic Language for non-native speakers, aimed at promoting linguistic diversity and cultural understanding among students.
In response, Ambassador Alghamdi assured the visiting team of the Kingdom’s readiness to foster knowledge exchange between the two countries. He highlighted the significance of education, especially female education, and discussed the potential of initiatives like “Artificial Intelligence for Females in STEM” and “Artificial Intelligence for Women in Aquaculture”.
The Ambassador promised to promote collaboration and assistance to SUN, Offa and posited that the initiative would also pave way for faculty and student exchange programmes, joint research endeavours, and academic partnerships.
The Pro-Chancellor, Alhaji Ebiti during his closing remarks highlighted ongoing collaborative efforts in cashew aggregation with the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, Foodco and other organizations, indicating the potential for similar partnerships in the Kingdom.
Other esteemed members of the SUN Offa team included SUN Offa BOT Chairman, Engr. Nurudeen Adeagbo, and Dr. Nurat Akinlabi-Babalola GM, Summit University Advancement Bureau.
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