GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO UNVEILS INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME FOR AAU STUDENTS

The Edo State Government is set to deepen academic and cultural ties with China, following a high-level visit by a delegation from Fujian Jiangxia University to Government House, Benin City.

The delegation, led by the university’s President, Mr. Ling Qzdan, expressed interest in partnering with the Edo State Government to promote bilateral cooperation in education, technology, culture, and scientific research.

Receiving the visitors, Governor Monday Okpebholo described the proposed partnership as timely and in line with his administration’s commitment to expanding opportunities for Edo students through international collaboration.

“We are delighted to welcome you to Benin City, one of Africa’s oldest and culturally rich cities,” the Governor stated. “This collaboration with China is one we’ve eagerly anticipated. It offers opportunities for knowledge exchange in education, culture, science, and technology. Learning is a lifelong endeavour, and such partnerships are vital to our vision for transformation.”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of cross-cultural exchanges, noting that Edo State’s rich heritage would be of interest to their Chinese counterparts, just as the state hopes to benefit from China’s expertise in technology and innovation.

At the centre of the new initiative is a planned partnership between Fujian Jiangxia University and Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, which will see the two institutions engage in joint academic programmes, research collaborations, and student exchange initiatives.

Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Ling Qzdan highlighted the similarities in academic structure and facilities between both universities, adding that the visit was aimed at formalizing cooperation for mutual benefit.

“This visit is intended to consolidate a robust partnership in education and cultural exchange,” Mr. Qzdan said. “Through joint initiatives and leadership dialogue, we can deepen collaboration and foster academic excellence.”

The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, described the agreement as a strategic milestone for education reform in the state. He announced that formal documentation for the technical partnership would commence in September.

“We are committed to building a globally competitive student population grounded in science, technology, and life skills,” Dr. Iyamu said. “The Governor has made it clear that Edo children must not just compete globally but also lead in innovation. This partnership with a nation like China, a global leader in infrastructure and technology, will undoubtedly transform our education sector.”

The visit signals Edo State’s firm commitment to international partnerships in education, human capital development, and cross-cultural engagement.