FULOKOJA Signs Two MoUs with KSCOEA on Study Centre, Affiliation

The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa (KSCOEA), to establish a study centre for conversion of eligible HND, Pass and Third Class qualifications into corresponding undergraduate degrees and provide framework for academic affiliation in specified degree programmes.

The agreements were signed at Felele Campus of the university, Lokoja, with Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, describing arrangements as consistent with FUL's vision of extending academic expertise to institutions within its catchment area. Both MoUs are subject to necessary regulatory authorisation by National Universities Commission (NUC).

Speaking at ceremony, Prof. Ibileye said proposed collaboration aligned with his vision and commended Provost of KSCOEA, Dr. Paul Femi Fashagba, for commitment to process.

"When the Provost mentioned possibility of having partnership with us, I did not hesitate to say that what you were asking aligned with my vision for Federal University Lokoja. Indeed, it should have been the University asking you for this partnership," he said.

The Vice-Chancellor recalled that discussions began shortly after his appointment and university undertook preliminary assessments before finalising agreements. He explained university insisted on completing necessary procedures and documenting terms properly to prevent avoidable disputes.

"Institutions are governed by regulations and processes. If institutions do not follow those regulations faithfully, today's smiles may degenerate into arguments," he said.

He assured College that FUL's academic standards and quality assurance mechanisms would govern programmes, adding that quality of degrees offered on main campus would be same quality offered at centre. He noted proximity would ease coordination on teaching, examinations and moderation.

"It is better for Federal University Lokoja to be parent institution for your College rather than outsource a university far away," he said.

Earlier, Provost of KSCOEA, Dr. Fashagba, described signing as historic achievement and expressed appreciation to Vice-Chancellor and management for accepting proposal. He said university subsequently directed officials to engage with College and assess capacity.

"The partnership is in areas of affiliation and study centre, where some degrees will be made available for conversion of diplomas and other qualifications. After duly assessing us, the University found us worthy," Dr. Fashagba said.

Under study centre arrangement, College will operate centre under FUL's supervision, while affiliation agreement will cover specified degree programmes subject to NUC approval.