FUTIA Librarian Participates in UK Faculty and Knowledge Exchange Programme
The University Librarian of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), Professor Philip Usman Akor, represented the University at the recently concluded Faculty and Knowledge Exchange Programme in the United Kingdom.
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The University Librarian of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), Professor Philip Usman Akor, represented the University at the recently concluded Faculty and Knowledge Exchange Programme in the United Kingdom.
The programme took place from 3rd to 6th February 2026 at the University of Sheffield and Loughborough University.
Organized by the Association of University Librarians of Nigerian Universities (AULNU) in collaboration with the UK institutions, the tour aimed to foster knowledge sharing, professional development, and international collaboration among Nigerian university librarians. The University of Sheffield, a top 100 global institution, and Loughborough University are both renowned for academic excellence, research, innovation, and institutional transformation.
Programme objectives included:
- Understanding the role of modern librarians and adopting best practices from UK universities.
- Exploring digital transformation, library management, and technology integration in academic libraries.
- Comparing library systems in Nigeria and the UK.
- Engaging in knowledge exchange on professional, managerial, and administrative activities.
- Building institutional linkages and partnerships for staff and student exchange, joint research, and academic quality assurance.
Highlights of the programme at the University of Sheffield included:
- Keynote lectures on global trends in library management and institutional innovation.
- Detailed overview of the University Library’s operations and services.
- Interactive panels and Q&A sessions with senior university leaders.
- Campus tours showcasing infrastructure, research facilities, and digital learning platforms.
- Networking and partnership forums for collaboration and institutional development.
At Loughborough University, Professor Akor attended a workshop focused on library technology and management, further strengthening his professional expertise and exposure to international best practices.
The participation of FUTIA’s University Librarian underscores the University’s commitment, under Vice-Chancellor Professor Leo Daniel, to global engagement, institutional leadership, and the adoption of innovative strategies for academic and administrative excellence.
