The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) and Globus Bank have explored
potential areas of collaboration, with discussions focusing on digital transformation, institutional
management and financing solutions.

The engagement took place at the President’s Boardroom during a courtesy visit by
representatives of Globus Bank, who presented the Bank’s school management platform and
other banking solutions tailored to the needs of educational institutions.

Speaking during the meeting, Ms Ijeoma Ezenduka, Branch Manager, Globus Bank, explained
that the Bank offers integrated services covering payments, financial management, human
resources, data management, hostel administration, revenue collection, training and e-learning.
According to her, the solutions are designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce collection
costs and address institutional challenges.

The President of AUST, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, responded by highlighting some of the
challenges associated with the University’s rapid growth, including difficulties in identifying bank
transfers, failed digital payments and limited integration between admissions, finance and
human resources systems. He expressed interest in solutions that could improve payment
reconciliation and streamline the University’s operations.

The meeting also explored potential financing opportunities, including working-capital facilities,
education-related lending and financing for a proposed Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Centre.
Both parties agreed on the need for further engagement, including a technical meeting between
their respective IT teams, to assess the proposed platform and identify opportunities for
integration and collaboration.

Giving the vote of thanks, Ms Ifunanya Ibenegbu, Relationship Manager, Globus Bank,
appreciated the President and staff of AUST, as well as the Globus Bank team, for the
engagement. She expressed optimism about the possibility of the Bank supporting the
University’s continued growth and development.

The visit concluded with both parties expressing interest in building a mutually beneficial
relationship that will support AUST’s growth and institutional development.
Representing AUST were Prof. Abdulhakeem Bello, Deputy Academic Planning/Vice-President’s
(DAP/VP); Mr Ben Okonkwo, Bursar; Mrs Gloria Ebere Ajaegbu, Head, Multilateral; Mr Obioha
Atulomah, Head, Media Services and Public Relations Unit; Mr Kingsley Ogwudu, Senior
Manager, AUSTInspire Hub; Ms Lizzy Asomugha, Head of Department, General Studies; and Ms
Blessing Iweha, Administrative Assistant, Media Services and Public Relations Unit.
Representing Globus Bank were Ms Ijeoma Ezenduka, Branch Manager; Ms Ifunanya Ibenegbu,
Relationship Manager; and Mr Collins Adebayo, Relationship Manager.