Delegates from Penn State University, Harrisburg have arrived University of Lagos for a two-day working visit.
The delegates consisting of Professor of Electrical Engineering and Director of the PPL Electric Utilities Power Lab, Dr. Prof. Peter Idowu; Associate Director, Africa Partnerships, Dr. Sylvester Osagie and Snr. Director, Special Projects and Coordination, Mr. Mel White, are in the University as a follow-up to an earlier visit in 2024.
The team accompanied by the Deputy Director, International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects (IRPP), Dr. Victor Onifade paid a courtesy visit to the University Management on Monday, February 3, 2025.
On hand to receive the delegates were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa; Registrar, Mrs. Abosede Wickliffe; Dean, Faculty of Science, Prof. Olayinka Asekun; Dean, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Prof. Modupe Omirin; Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Samson Adeosun; Co-chair, UNILAG Global Engagement Committee, Prof. Omolola Orenuga; former Head, Department of Zoology, Prof. Emmanuel Idowu; Acting Head, Department of Petroleum and Gas Engineering, Dr. O. A. Adeyanju, and Dr. Adeola Balogun of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
Prof. Idowu explained that the visit aimed to explore mutually beneficial opportunities for both universities. He noted that the team was particularly interested in potential collaborations across various fields such as Agricultural Sciences, Business Administration, Public Administration, Health Administration, Science, Earth and Mineral Sciences, Education, Engineering, Health and Human Development, and Liberal Arts.
In addition, Dr. Osagie highlighted that UNILAG Faculty members can participate in exchange programmes at Penn State University under the Fulbright Scholarship Programme. He also mentioned that plans were in the offing for a virtual workshop that would involve Penn State University, Rutgers University, and several universities in Nigeria.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development Services, welcomed the delegates by emphasizing the mission of the University of Lagos to establish its position in international higher education. She remarked, “We believe we bring a lot to the table and look forward to more collaborations on more equitable terms – not just as a pipeline for graduates to leave but also as a pipeline for others to see what higher education in Africa looks like.”
She also highlighted the various infrastructure improvements the University made to accommodate international scholars and students, including the fully furnished Scholars Suites apartments. She underscored the University’s goal to “open up the University of Lagos for global scholars to learn about us, make an impact, and create opportunities for staff and student exchanges.”
Additionally, she noted that the University has been exploring dual degree and joint degree opportunities with international universities, as well as the commercialization of research and innovations.
She concluded the meeting by emphasizing that UNILAG has extensive experience in international collaboration, both in teaching and research and remains enthusiastic about continuing and expanding such partnerships.
Afterwards, the team headed downstairs for group photographs and then to the IRPP Office for further deliberations.
Reporter: Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Photographer: Joshua Michael
