Kentucky State University has taken an exciting step toward expanding global educational opportunities by signing a memorandum of understanding with Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Nigeria. They officially inaugurated the partnership on Sept. 23, 2024.
The MOU was signed by KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo and COOU Vice Chancellor Kate Azuka Omenugha. The agreement is designed to foster collaborative initiatives encompassing a range of academic fields, including agriculture, education, nursing, and engineering.
“We are very excited about our partnership with Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University,” stated Dr. Akakpo. “We are optimistic that this will transform students’ lives in both countries by providing educational enrichment and broadening students’ perspectives and cultural awareness all while enhancing both universities’ academic offerings.”
Vice Chancellor Omenugha echoed these sentiments, expressing her enthusiasm for the partnership. “This is an avenue for us to explore through research and teaching our common and diverse cultures and develop global appreciation of and interest in our heritage. Indeed there are so many possibilities and my presence at the Inauguration of Dr. Koffi Akakpo as the 19th president of KSU is a testimony of greater things to come.”
The MOU sets the stage for joint activities such as study abroad programs, online degree offerings, seminars, and collaborative research projects. To ensure the MOU’s success, KSU plans to support students applying for Fulbright Foreign Programs, host visiting faculty from COOU, and offer graduate assistantship opportunities for COOU students specializing in agriculture.
“This is just the beginning of our partnership and endless possibilities for both our universities and students,” said Dr. Akakpo. “I look forward to a bright future ahead.”
Currently, KSU boasts 28 active international partnerships spanning 16 countries, with plans to expand further.
