Sokoto, Kent University partner on academic, cultural exchange

Sokoto State government has announced the commencement of a partnership with Kent University, United States of America (U.S) on academic and cultural exchange.

The scope of the agreement will include the traditional exchange programmes as well as academic personnel for teaching and research.

The spokesman to Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Malalm Imam Imam, said in a statement that the agreement was signed by the duo of the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Muhammad Jabbi Kilgori and Dr. Linda Robertson for international and inter-cultural education.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Tambuwal in his office, Robertson said that the agreement also involves the organisation of joint seminars and conferences, hosting of faculty members from partner institutions as well as development of joint research and publications.

“It also involves development of specialised degree completion programmes, accelerated attention for girls to girls’ education and teacher improvement activities,” she stated.

She stated that her visit to Sokoto provided an opportunity to assess government’s commitment to turn around educational sector in the state.

“Your decision to declare a state of emergency in the education sector shows fully how committed you are to addressing the challenges facing the sector. I am happy that you have followed up on the declaration by implementing recommendations offered by professionals to help the sector improve.”

In his response, Tambuwal said Sokoto has a reputation for keeping up agreements entered into with various organisations at home and abroad, and assured that the MoU would be implemented to the letter.

On his part, the governor commended Dr. Robertson for the visit and interaction with stakeholders and youth organisations, while assuring of the state’s readiness to partner with interested parties to move all sectors forward.