Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in Abeokuta has entered a strategic partnership with Pennsylvania State University, USA, to enhance educational and research development.
This collaboration was highlighted during a visit by a delegation from Penn State to MAPOLY last Thursday, aiming to strengthen the existing ties between the two institutions.
Adeoye Odedeji, the rector of MAPOLY, emphasised the institution’s commitment to international collaborations, recognizing the substantial benefits they bring.
He credited the facilitation of this visit to the Olowu of Owu, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola Odedeji, who provided the platform for this effective partnership.
The Penn State delegation, known as the G-5 team, was led by Professor Sylvester Osagie, Associate Director of Africa Partnerships and Director of the Faculty Fulbright Programme. The team included prominent members such as Kimberly Lawless, Dean of the College of Education; Professor Sjoerd Willem Duiker, an expert in Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics; Professor Esther Obonyo, a specialist in Engineering Design and Architectural Engineering; and Mel White, Senior Director of Special Projects and Coordination.
During the event, Oba Matemilola, represented by Chief Abiodun Lasile, the Orunto of Owu, encouraged MAPOLY researchers to leverage this collaboration for significant academic and research advancements. He highlighted the importance of utilizing such partnerships to propel the institution’s development.
Professor Osagie, leading the Penn State team, underscored the necessity of global partnerships to address worldwide challenges. “When it comes to tackling global challenges, there is no single individual, institution, or country that can address them alone. We all need to collaborate with one another to be able to address them,” Osagie stated.
The collaboration will see faculty members from both institutions meeting to discuss their areas of interest and formalizing the partnership, fostering a productive exchange of knowledge and expertise.
