AUST , NM-AIST To Deepen Intra-African Partnership for Academic and Research Advancement
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, recently hosted a delegation from the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania, as both institutions explored avenues to deepen academic collaboration, innovation exchange, and research development across the continent.
The Vice Chancellor of NM-AIST, Prof. Maulilio John Kipanyule, was accompanied on the visit by Dr. Michael Haule Manager, Institutional marketing and Corporate Affairs.
The meeting marked a significant step towards strengthening cooperation in science, technology, and higher education among the Nelson Mandela Institutions ( NMI).
In his opening remarks, Prof. Kipanyule expressed his appreciation for the warm reception given to him and his delegate and thanked AUST President, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS for making the visit possible.
He highlighted the progress and vision of NM-AIST, located in Arusha, one of the richest and most academic regions in northern Tanzania.
According to him “Our institution is structured to promote scientific excellence and development, with established schools in sciences, Engineering, business, and innovation. We see ourselves as part of the same African academic family,” he noted.
In his response, the AUST President, Prof. Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, FAS, welcomed the delegation and expressed enthusiasm about building stronger collaborations with NM-AIST and other African institutions.
He said that the value of partnerships in accessing global support, such as World Bank-funded capacity building initiatives and ECOWAS grants, which have contributed significantly to AUST’s development.
“Our institutions must continue to work together to solve pressing societal problems and create innovations that benefit Africa and the world.
This visit in his words signals the beginning of what we believe will be an impactful and long-lasting partnership,” Prof. Onwualu enthused.
A key highlight of the visit was a series of institutional presentations. Dr. Vitalis Anye, Acting Dean of Engineering at AUST, presented an in-depth overview of the university’s academic structure, achievements, and student innovation ecosystem.
He highlighted ECOWAS-funded projects, African Development Bank (AfDB) laboratories, and student-led innovation hubs.
The NM-AIST team followed with their presentation, showcasing the institution’s evolution since its establishment in 2009 and its first student intake in 2011. They emphasized NM-AIST’s 5D business model—Research, Postgraduate Training, Outreach and Community Engagement, Incubation, and Commercialization—as a framework for driving excellence and impact.
Representing AUST at the meeting were Dr. Bello Abdulhakeem, Acting Director of Academic Planning; Mr. Inegbenose Osoba, Academic Registrar; Mrs. Murna Opatola, Associate Director, Operations; Mrs. Buchi Ekpolomo, Chief Librarian; Dr. Usman A. Bello, Acting Dean of the School of Science and Science Education (SSSE); Dr. Abubakar Haruna, Acting Dean of the School of Management Sciences; Mr. Okonkwo Ben, Bursar; Mrs. Ajaegbu Gloria, Head of Advancement and Multi-lateral Projects; Prince Obioha Atulomah, Head, Media Services and Public Relations and Miss Blessing Iweha, Media Assistant.
Mr. Adekola Oluseyi, Country Representative at NMI; and Ms. Ngozi Leweke, represented the NMI country Director.
The NM-AIST delegation expressed their satisfaction with the level of engagement and dialogue, noting that they looked forward to practical steps toward implementing joint academic programs, research collaborations, and capacity-building initiatives.
The delegation were taken on a guided tour of the AUST campus. The tour included visits to key academic facilities such as the AfDB laboratories, lecture halls, CPDI- Africa center, the AUSTinspire innovation hub, library, and student service centers.
The NM-AIST team commended the university’s infrastructure and innovative environment, describing the experience as both inspiring and insightful.
The visit ended on a high note, with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to fostering impactful partnerships that promote innovation and academic excellence across Africa.