PENANG, 14 June 2016 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is taking another significant step forward in establishing collaborations with Nigeria through the University of Jos (UJ), established in 1971 and which began student admission in 1975.

The Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato’ Dr. Omar Osman welcomed the move in establishing this collaboration as USM and UJ have their own uniqueness that could be of benefit to both institutions in creating a ‘win-win situation’.

“Through this collaboration, USM and UJ would gain mutual benefits and from which could lead to collaborations in other fields such as through student exchange, joint research and also staff exchange,” said Omar.

“There are 110 students from Nigeria currently undergoing studies at USM and among them are the staff from UJ, who would be sharing the knowledge obtained here with those in their home country,” added Omar who received a courtesy call from the Vice-Chancellor of UJ, Professor Hayward Babale Mafuyai, here recently.

According to Hayward, the aim of the visit was to establish more formal cooperation and relations as compared to earlier engagements, which were conducted in a more individualised manner.

“A more formalised relations would lead to a greater impact and follow-ups as a result of this meeting, on which I would hold further discussions with my colleagues at UJ,” he added.

Earlier on, Hayward had a meeting with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International Affairs), Professor Dato’ Dr. Ahmad Shukri Mustapa Kamal; the Dean of School of Mathematical Sciences, Professor Dr. Hailiza Kamarulhaili @ Harun; and the Director of International Mobility and Career Centre (IMCC), Dr. Muhizam Mustafa.  

Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin

Text: Nor Rafizah Md. Zain / Photo: Zamani Abdul Rahim