Ireland Pledges Support For African School Of Economics, Promises Strategic Partnerships
Ireland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan, has assured the management of the African School of Economics (ASE) of his country’s commitment to supporting the Pan-African University of Excellence in achieving its vision of educational and entrepreneurial transformation.
During a courtesy visit to the ASE campus in Abuja on Wednesday, Ambassador Ryan emphasized Ireland’s readiness to explore collaborative opportunities that would foster education, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange between Irish universities and ASE.
“Our shared goals align in promoting education and cultural exchange,” Ryan stated.
“Ireland’s passionate commitment to advancing education is rooted in our belief that we control our freedom through education.”
He further noted that Ireland would facilitate partnerships between ASE and universities within the European Union, extending beyond Irish institutions.
Highlighting ASE’s transformational vision, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, described the institution as a conventional university committed to transnational education.
He noted ASE’s robust academic offerings across disciplines, including Public Health, Business Administration, Political Science, Cyber Security, Biochemistry, and Medical Laboratory Science, among others.
“Our aim is to produce job creators and entrepreneurs who will contribute to societal development, rather than mere job seekers,” Prof. Adedimeji said.
“A university is universal, and we cannot build a world-class institution alone. We need partnerships with institutions worldwide, and we look forward to student and faculty exchange programs with Irish universities to foster academic cooperation.”
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Ambassador for the potential partnerships that could emerge, which he said would further ASE’s commitment to research, culture, and entrepreneurship.
In his remarks, ASE Country Director, Mr. Obinna Obiwulu, reiterated the university’s dedication to solving African problems through African-led research and innovation.
He highlighted the institution’s success in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, which laid the groundwork for ASE Nigeria.
“The university seeks to provide equal opportunity access to quality education regardless of social stratification,” Obiwulu said.
He cited ASE’s involvement in research contributions to the Hollywood blockbuster The Woman King as evidence of its commitment to showcasing African culture and history.
Ambassador Ryan praised the historical ties between Ireland and Nigeria, noting the Irish tradition of localizing foreign investments to create employment.
He expressed optimism about bridging the gap between young Nigerians overseas and those at home through strategic collaborations with ASE.
The Registrar, Mrs. Emilomo Fowowe Ogunboye, expressed the university’s gratitude to the Ambassador for his visit and the Embassy’s anticipated support.
She lauded the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership and the dedication of ASE faculty and staff in driving the institution’s vision.
With Ireland’s promise of partnership, ASE is set to strengthen its position as a leading hub for education and innovation in Africa.
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