Cavista Holdings, a leading conglomerate in Nigeria, has partnered with the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) to establish a liaison office in Lagos, Nigeria. This initiative aims to support African students aspiring to study abroad by streamlining the admission process and providing access to quality education. The partnership was announced during the launch of the University of Texas at Dallas office in Ilupeju, Lagos on Thursday, which was attended by several eminent Nigerians and Americans, such as the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the US Consul General in Nigeria, Will Stevens, MD Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, amongst others.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. John Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and host of the event, emphasized the main objective of the office: to facilitate access to quality education for Nigerians by simplifying the admission process to UTD. Olajide, an alumnus of UTD, highlighted the university’s significant role in his educational journey and professional success.
“I am thrilled about the opportunities this new office will create for millions of young people in Nigeria and across Africa who are seeking quality education,” said Olajide. “The office will help build strong relationships, attract top students, and ensure that their time at UTD is enriched with friendships and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.”
Reflecting on his career, Olajide acknowledged UTD’s pivotal role in shaping his success in healthcare technology and various industries in Nigeria, including technology, agriculture, and hospitality. “I use the lessons I learned at UTD every day to help my companies realize their fullest potential. I am proud to be associated with a school that contributes so much to making the world a better place.”
Olajide noted that the decision to partner with UTD was driven by the need to develop a pipeline of talent that will contribute to Nigeria’s future. He expressed confidence that attracting Nigeria and Africa’s brightest young minds to UTD would enhance the university’s reputation, already recognized as one of the top engineering schools in the United States.
In his speech, the UTD President, Richard Benson expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in making the partnership possible, particularly John Olajide. “To say that we are proud of our distinguished alumnus is an understatement. John’s leadership has built successful businesses, contributed to the vitality of education, and guided us all into reaching for the stars,” Benson said.
Benson provided an overview of why UTD is uniquely suited to educate students from around the world, especially from Africa. “UT Dallas is a top-tier research university that attracts students and faculty from around the globe. During the 2023-2024 academic year, about one in every five students who enrolled came from countries other than the United States. We have made a concerted effort to provide an education open to students from around the world. The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community, prepared for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world.”
Benson highlighted the personalized educational experience at UTD, where students excel in diverse fields such as math, poetry, business, orchestra, biology, and athletics. “Every square inch of our campus is a learning space. Our significant growth over the last decade means students study in some of the nation’s newest classrooms and most modern laboratories. These buildings symbolize our focus on providing the best education possible.”
Benson emphasized UTD’s strong ties to industry and applied research, a foundational aspect of the university since its creation in the 1960s. “It would be our greatest honor to continue writing the exciting story of UT Dallas with the bright men and women of Africa,” Benson concluded.
John Gonzalez, the team lead from the University of Texas at Dallas, explained that the office aims to create a hub for collaboration among scholars and researchers from UTD and Nigeria. “We are excited about the opportunities this office will create for Nigerians and Africans in general. It will harness the abundant talents of youths for development in Nigeria,” Gonzalez said.
Provost of UTD, Inga Musselman, highlighted the institution’s diverse academic programs, which include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees across seven faculties. “Our schools of humanities, technology, and art offer a combination of STEM-focused learning,” Musselman said.
Speaking after the launch, Mr. Will Stevens, United States Consul General in Nigeria, described the establishment of the office as a natural progression in the relationship between the USA and Nigeria. He noted that increased study opportunities in the US would lead to enhanced knowledge exchange, benefiting research institutions, businesses, and investors in both countries.
The establishment of the UTD liaison office in Lagos marks a significant step in fostering educational and cultural exchange between Nigeria and the United States, paving the way for future collaboration and opportunities.
Some of the dignitaries who attended the event include the Acting Director General, Nigerian American Chamber of Commerce, Ms Wofai. Samuel.
