FUNAAB Strengthens Global Collaboration with Swedish Institution

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has taken a significant step in its internationalisation agenda by signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Blekinge Institute of Technology (BTH), Karlskrona, Sweden.

The agreement, facilitated by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Babatunde Kehinde and BTH President Prof. Henric Johnson—represented by the institution’s Country Director, Prof. Kayode Adekunle—sets the stage for robust collaboration in teaching, research, and innovation.

Under the MoU, both institutions will explore student and staff mobility across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, develop joint research projects, implement collaborative academic programmes, and exchange scholarly publications. The partnership also provides for co-hosted conferences, seminars, and other academic initiatives designed to deepen intellectual engagement and intercultural exchange.

Prof. Kehinde described the collaboration as a reflection of FUNAAB’s growing global vision, highlighting the University’s commitment to attaining international relevance despite its relatively young age. He emphasised that the partnership with BTH was embraced as part of FUNAAB’s focus on initiatives delivering tangible benefits to students and faculty.

Prof. Kayode Adekunle, who has facilitated academic linkages between Nigeria and Sweden since 2009, pledged personal dedication to the partnership’s success. He praised FUNAAB’s academic and infrastructural advancements and noted that the most enduring impact of international collaboration lies in strategic investment in students and human capital development.

Speaking on sustaining the partnership, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, stressed integrity and trust as essential pillars. He noted that transparency, ethical leadership, and institutional accountability would ensure long-term success, while sustainable outcomes would be achieved through virtual lectures, postgraduate mentorship, and joint research initiatives.

The MoU signing and discussions were attended by key FUNAAB officials, including the Dean of the College of Engineering, Prof. Adedayo Badejo; Acting Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships, Dr. Oluwagbemiga Adeleye; Head of the Office of Advancement, Mr. Olujinmi Ogundimu; and Mr. Femi Pearce of BTH.

A highlight of the visit was a tour of the College of Engineering and the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), underscoring both institutions’ commitment to fostering academic excellence and sustainable development.