GSU and University of Canterbury Reaffirm 20-Year Academic Alliance During Prof. Hazel Chapman’s Courtesy Visit

The Vice-Chancellor of Gombe State University, Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta, received Professor Hazel Chapman of the University of Canterbury on a courtesy visit aimed at further strengthening the long-standing academic partnership between both institutions.

The collaboration, established in 2006 through the Nigerian Montane Forest Project (Mambilla Plateau), remains one of GSU’s most impactful international engagements. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has consistently supported joint research, academic training, student exchange, and capacity-building initiatives that have enhanced teaching and learning across both institutions.

So far, the partnership has facilitated advanced research training for eight academic staff from the Faculty of Science, particularly in Biological Sciences, Zoology, and Botany. It has also benefited over 200 students, many of whom have progressed into academic and professional careers within and outside the University.

Following its renewal in 2024, the MoU continues to provide support in research funding, student sponsorship, accommodation, logistics, and laboratory development, thereby strengthening the University’s research and training capacity.

During the visit, Professor Chapman expressed appreciation to Gombe State University, the Government of Gombe State, and project partners for their sustained commitment, while also commending the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Danladi Umar Mohamed, for his contributions to the success of the collaboration.

In his response, the Vice-Chancellor welcomed the visitor and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to sustaining and expanding the partnership, noting its significant impact on research output, staff development, and institutional growth.

The visit further strengthened the enduring relationship between both institutions, reaffirming their shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and international academic cooperation.

Hadu Naphtali Ligari

PRO, GSU