The agreement was signed at the office of FUL Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Ibileye, with management representatives from both institutions in attendance.

Ibileye said the partnership aligns with the university’s plan to extend its academic programmes to institutions within its catchment area and improve access to higher education. He explained that the collaboration followed an approach by the College’s Provost, Dr Paul Femi Fashagba, shortly after the vice-chancellor assumed office, with discussions progressing over approximately eight months before the agreement was formalised.

Under the arrangement, the proposed study centre is expected to offer undergraduate programmes in Mass Communication, Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration, Industrial Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Computer Science, Business Education, Statistics, Mathematics and Physics. Additional programmes may be considered under the agreement.

The vice-chancellor said the university was committed to partnerships that support teaching and learning but stressed that all programmes must comply with established academic procedures and quality assurance requirements.

He also noted that working with a nearby university would make coordination easier and reduce the travel costs and logistical difficulties that could arise from partnering with an institution located farther away.

The Kogi State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Hellen Aderibigbe, welcomed the agreement, expressing confidence that the collaboration would contribute to improved teaching and learning.

Fashagba described the development as a major achievement for the College and thanked FUL for approving the partnership following an assessment of the institution.

According to the provost, the agreement covers both academic affiliation and the establishment of a study centre, including opportunities for eligible candidates with diplomas and other recognised qualifications to pursue degree-conversion programmes under the approved arrangement.

He added that the MoU provides for the College to operate the study centre under the supervision of Federal University Lokoja and assured the university that his institution would meet the responsibilities and standards expected of it.

The partnership is expected to expand access to selected university programmes for students in Ankpa and surrounding communities. However, prospective applicants should await official announcements from the two institutions on admission procedures, programme availability, approved qualifications and commencement dates.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia