Nile University of Nigeria has hosted the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology of The Gambia, Hon. Prof. Pierre Gomez, as part of a National Universities Commission (NUC)-coordinated study tour aimed at strengthening institutional learning and knowledge exchange across African universities.
The Gambian delegation was led by Prof. Gomez and accompanied by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ms Isatou Auber, alongside Engr. Suleiman Adebayo, Deputy Director and Team Lead of the University-Industry Linkage Division at the NUC, and other NUC officials.
Welcoming the delegation, Nile University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dilli Dogo, described the visit as a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration among African higher education institutions.
“We are honoured that Nile University was selected as one of the institutions to host this distinguished delegation. Universities have an important role to play in Africa’s development, and that requires us to look beyond our individual institutions and countries to build partnerships, exchange knowledge and learn from one another,” he said.
Prof. Gomez, in his remarks, acknowledged Nigeria’s longstanding role in shaping higher education in The Gambia, noting that Nigerian academics have made significant contributions to the country’s university system over the years.
“It is always good to come back to our roots because Nigeria has been a trusted partner in our educational journey for many years. Most of the faculty members in our universities are Nigerians, and the founding Vice-Chancellor of the University of The Gambia was also Nigerian. That reflects the depth of the relationship our two countries have built over the years,” he said.
During the visit, the delegation toured Nile University’s facilities, including its state-of-the-art Virtual Reality room, which supports experiential learning in business, leadership, and decision-making. They also gained insight into the university’s approach to digital learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and student development.
The visit opened discussions on institutional development and the evolving role of African universities in expanding research, embracing technology-enabled learning, and equipping graduates for a rapidly changing global economy.
Before departing, the delegation expressed interest in formalising partnerships with Nile University, indicating plans to forward proposals for Memoranda of Understanding to support the newly established University of Science and Innovation and Technology in The Gambia.
Digital Operations Manager at The Students Forum Nigeria.
