FROM SAMSON ALFA,MINNA.
Niger State government has strengthened partnership with Kent State University in its continuing efforts to improve the education sector.
Special Adviser to the governor on Digital Media and Strategy, Abdullberqy Ebbo said this is aimed at creating opportunities in higher education, developmental interventions, business and investment between Kent State University, Ohio Department of Development and Niger State.
The Niger delegation was led by the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mustapha Ndajiwo, accompanied by the Special Advisers to the governor on Special Duties, Social Investment and Domestic Affairs, Dr Murtala Muhammad Bagana and Hauwa Bako, as well as Abdulakeem Oshinuga.
Ebbo disclosed that the meeting was held with representatives from the Office of Global Education, Department of Administration, Ohio Governor’s Office and the provost of Kent State University.
He explained that the initiative is to build on a previously signed Global Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, by Governor Umaru Bago to pursue specific programmes in the pilot phase of the partnership, the commissioner signed a letter of intent on behalf of the state government with Kent State’s provost.
According to Ebbo, with this development, Niger State has secured a startup location for the Centre at Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna to be launched soon, where students are expected to have the option to study fully online from Nigeria, earning either a U.S degree or a dual degree.
According to the report, the centre will oversee several programmes, including a two-plus-two degree initiative where undergraduates from Niger State can complete the first two years of their studies in Nigeria and the remaining two years in the United States at half the tuition cost.
Ebbo revealed areas of collaboration to include student and lecturer exchange programmes, executive and leadership programmes, aviation studies, vocational skills development, fashion, sports and investment opportunities through the State of Ohio.
He stressed that the partnership will deliver significant benefits across various sectors for socio-economic development.
