The American University of Nigeria (AUN), widely recognized for its dedication to academic excellence and community development, has taken significant steps to strengthen partnerships with key institutions across Adamawa State. In a series of high-level courtesy visits, AUN President Dr. DeWayne Frazier led a delegation to Modibbo Adama University (MAU) and Adamawa State Polytechnic on April 30, 2025, to explore collaborative opportunities.
The visits focused on fostering joint staff development programs, research initiatives, and the mutual sharing of academic resources. Discussions also touched on the newly restructured TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS), which now emphasizes in-country academic advancement. This initiative is designed to reduce brain drain by encouraging Nigerian scholars to pursue advanced degrees locally within selected universities, including AUN.
At MAU Yola, the AUN team was received by Vice Chancellor Professor Ibrahim Umar and other senior staff. Talks centered on developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate collaborative training programs, research projects, and shared access to library resources.
Speaking at MAU, Dr. Frazier emphasized the importance of such partnerships in driving long-term academic and developmental impact. “We believe in partnerships that create real impact,” he said. “This is about more than just exchanging ideas—it’s about building something lasting that supports education, innovation, and community development. We’re truly excited about the future and the great things we’ll achieve together.”
In response, Professor Umar expressed his admiration for AUN’s academic philosophy and shared his personal connection to the university. “The university’s focus on quality and hands-on learning is something I truly admire. This partnership is not just timely; it’s essential.”
The AUN delegation toured some of MAU’s key facilities, including the university’s Solar Farm and Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre.
At Adamawa State Polytechnic, the delegation was warmly received by the Rector, Professor Mohamed Dahiru Toungos, who expressed optimism about future collaboration. “I’m excited about what this collaboration can achieve, and I know our lecturers will be thrilled at the opportunity to study at AUN right here at home, instead of having to go to another state or country.”
These engagements lay a promising foundation for sustained institutional cooperation. AUN and its partner institutions aim to expand academic opportunities for students and staff, strengthen regional research capacity, and contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of Adamawa State and Nigeria at large.
Reported by Pwagreno Blessing Moris