FUNAAB and FJUT Sign MoU to Launch China–Africa Youth Innovation Base

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and Fujian University of Technology (FJUT), China, formalized a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 1, 2025, establishing the China–Africa Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Base.

The agreement signals expanded academic and research collaboration and is set to enhance Nigeria–China educational ties while elevating FUNAAB’s international profile.

Welcoming the FJUT delegation, FUNAAB Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, described the MoU as a significant step in the university’s internationalisation agenda. He highlighted interest from a Chinese-affiliated industry in Ogun State, demonstrating the potential for academic–industrial synergy. Prof. Kehinde also referenced the support of the Chinese Consul General in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, emphasizing FUNAAB’s growing strategic relevance in bilateral academic engagements.

FJUT Vice-President, Prof. Zhan Songqing, praised FUNAAB’s contributions to agricultural innovation and capacity-building. He outlined the benefits of joint research, staff and student exchange programmes, and international cooperation projects funded by China’s Ministries of Education and Commerce. Prof. Zhan noted that the presence of Chinese industries in Ogun State would facilitate seamless collaboration between academia and industry.

The MoU covers key areas including teaching, research, student and staff mobility, joint degree and double-degree programmes, technology transfer, cultural exchange initiatives, consultancy services, and participation in international conferences and workshops.

A central feature of the partnership is the China–Africa Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Base, designed to implement the “Chinese plus Professional Skills” training model across Africa. The Base will focus on youth capacity-building in agricultural information systems, digitisation, mechanisation, agricultural equipment technology, and other emerging fields, serving as a hub for innovation-driven research and cross-border entrepreneurship.

The signing ceremony included key members of FUNAAB Management, such as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Olusegun Idowu, Registrar Dr. Titus Adeniyi, Deputy Registrar Mr. Moses Ayanda, and University Legal Officer Mrs. Olanrewaju Tanimowo. The FJUT delegation was led by Zhuang Weiqing, Director of International Affairs, and included other senior officials from the university’s offices of alumni and international relations.

The collaboration is expected to catalyse new opportunities in research, technology development, and youth empowerment, reinforcing Nigeria–China cooperation in education and agricultural development.