UI’s Global Ranking Driven by Excellence, Collaboration with Leading Researchers, Says DVC

The University of Ibadan (UI) has earned its high global ranking through a combination of academic excellence, faculty dedication, and strategic partnerships with renowned researchers, according to Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, SAN, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships. She made the statement during the visit of a delegation from Campbellsville University, U.S.A., who were at UI to strengthen ties and set up a Montessori strategies laboratory in the Department of Early Childhood and Educational Foundations.

Speaking on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, Bamgbose highlighted UI’s position as the top university in Nigeria, West Africa, and sixth in Africa, attributing this success to the institution’s commitment to excellence. She emphasized that UI is well-positioned to foster more partnerships like the one with Campbellsville University under their existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The Campbellsville delegation, led by Professor Sharon Hundley, an expert in Montessori strategies, and Assistant Professor Julie Ann Ball, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. They commended UI’s global reputation and noted that their visit focused on training lecturers and students in Montessori strategies aimed at early childhood development. Hundley emphasized that childhood is the most critical period for shaping future leaders, and the Montessori approach—centered on developing children's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive skills—has been effective for over two decades.

The partnership will involve student and staff exchanges, cultural collaborations, and Train-the-Trainer programs, with a postgraduate program in Montessori strategies set to launch soon at UI.

This collaboration is expected to further enhance UI’s reputation and contribute to its continued global prominence.