In a significant step toward advancing international academic collaboration, the University of Ibadan (UI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol.
The MoU, signed during a brief but symbolic ceremony in Bristol, is aimed at fostering partnerships in key areas such as research, student and staff exchange, curriculum development, joint degree programmes, supervision, and academic events including conferences, seminars, and workshops.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of UI, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, expressed the university’s enthusiasm for the collaboration. He noted that both institutions share common interests that can yield mutual academic and developmental benefits.
“We are excited about this partnership and the opportunities it presents. The University of Ibadan is ready to work closely with UWE to explore joint programmes and impactful research,” Professor Adebowale stated.
The Vice-Chancellor of UWE, Professor Sir Steve West, CBE, welcomed the UI delegation and lauded their commitment to the collaboration. Describing the partnership as a “landmark event,” he affirmed that the institutions are well-aligned in vision and capacity for joint academic progress.
UI’s delegation was led by Professor Adebowale and included:
Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, SAN, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships (RISP)
Professor Sherifat Aboaba, Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI)
Professor Ayodele Jegede, Director, Research Management Office (RMO)
The UWE team comprised senior university officials including:
Professor Sir Steve West, CBE, Vice-Chancellor
Professor Paul Olomolaiye, Pro-Chancellor
Jo Midgley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Registrar
Professor Amanda Coffey, Provost
Professor Yvonne Beach, PVC and Head of College
Professor Elena Marco, PVC and Head of College
Dr James Lee, PVC and Head of College
And others involved in innovation, African engagement, engineering, and robotics.
The event also featured members of UWE’s Bristol Robotics Laboratory and Global Partnerships Office, underlining the depth and diversity of the new partnership.
The MoU is expected to pave the way for a robust academic exchange and research synergy between Nigeria’s premier university and one of the UK’s leading modern institutions.
