Management of the University of Lagos led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with two prominent French institutions, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, (IRD) and French Cultural centre, Allianz Francaise.
Receiving the Consul-General of France to Nigeria, Mr. Laurent Favier who led the delegation of Diplomats and representatives from the institutions to the Senate House of the University of Lagos on Friday, February 23, 2024, the Vice-Chancellor underscored the deepening ties between France and Nigeria in the realms of education, research, and cultural exchange.
Professor Ogunsola received the guests along with Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Lucian Chukwu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Academic and Research), Professor Bola Oboh; Acting Registrar, Mrs. Olakunle Makinde; Bursar, Mrs. Yetunde Oluwafunlola Adekunle; University Librarian, Professor Yetunde Zaid and Director, Quality Assurance and SERVICOM, Professor Olufemi Saibu.
In his remarks, the Head of the French mission in Nigeria and a first time visitor to the University, expressed sincere appreciation to the leadership of the University for inviting him and ensuring that the deal was sealed with Nigeria’s biggest learning citadel.
The visibly-elated leader of delegation congratulated the institution’s leadership on two fronts, “first for being part of an African and European partnership that will reflect on the relationship between them in terms of partnership on higher education, culture diversity and scientific research. The second reason is the setting up of an extension of Allianz Francaise within the university to promote French language and culture”.
He assured that the partnership will lead to more international collaborations aimed at promoting academic excellence and innovation with other French institutions.
IRD regional representative, Prof. Ndam Nicaise, on his part enumerated the role of the French public research institution. According to him, IRD is a multidisciplinary French public research organization committed to equitable partnerships with countries.
His words “As a contributor to the achievement of the international development agenda, the IRD aligns its priorities with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
There was comment given via a virtual presentation from IRD Researcher, Elodie Apard that further speaks to the importance of the collaboration with the university.
Responding to her guests, Professor Ogunsola thanked the delegation and explained that the signing of the MoU was the culmination of several discussions.The Vice Chancellor described the development as a remarkable narrative, opening a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between UNILAG and the French government.
In her words, “for a country that is surrounded by Francophone countries, French is a language that we really need to speak better especially with our relationship with France. We are particular about fostering regional integration which invariably would be a great one for Nigeria.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Ayo Oloyede
