German govt pledges closer ties with AE-FUNAI
The Federal Republic of Germany has promised to establish closer relationship with Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, as part of vision of building functional collaborations with Nigerian Universities.
The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Benhard Schlageck made the remark when he received the Vice Chancellor, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba and staff of the University at the German embassy, Abuja.
Ambassador Schlageck noted that AE-FUNAI was a serious University. He said he was delighted to have the Vice Chancellor and his team at the embassy.
“It is important to establish working relationships with universities in Nigeria, especially AE-FUNAI reputed for its serious academic activities”, he said.
He further assured the support of the German Government to the University in ensuring that it is one of the beneficiaries of its off-grid solar power station and promised also to support the teaching, learning and enhancement of German language Programme in the institution.
Earlier while making his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Nwajiuba stated that the reason for the visit was to seek closer ties and collaboration with Germany and its universities, and expressed his happiness for the warm reception accorded them at the embassy.
He pointed out some areas of interest to include exchange programmes for the training of students and staff, research, stressing that the university currently has an existing Memorandum of Understanding with some other countries including France.
He also called on the envoy to support the University in its drive to promote the German language, adding that it is a programme of study approved to be run in the University.
The Vice-Chancellor further shared his vision of building a university in a garden through his campus-green initiative which is meant to make the institution the most beautiful and eco-friendly campus in Nigeria, and solicited the help of the German Government to build a solar energy grid to provide uninterrupted electricity to the University.
He further used the opportunity to invite the envoy to the university in 2019 to enable him have a firsthand knowledge of the much-talked about institution.
Speaking also during the visit, the Director, Centre for Development Assistance Management, Partnership and Training, Mr. Chris Uwadoka said he admired the German unique working culture and method which have set the country on high.
He pointed out to the ambassador the need to support the University in areas of facilities and equipment to solidify the teaching and learning of German language, sciences and promotion of research in the university.
