The Pan African University (PAU) concluded its 6th Ordinary Session of the Senate Meeting held on June 18-19 at the REIZ Continental Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria. The two-day hybrid meeting, presided over by Professor Jean Koulidiati, PAU Rector, brought together Senate members from across the PAU Institutes to advance key initiatives in higher education and research.

The meeting addressed critical areas of institutional development, with particular focus on academic program expansion, student welfare, research collaboration, and continental partnerships. Senate members participating both in-person and online deliberated on strategic decisions that will shape PAU's trajectory in supporting Africa's development goals.

The Senate approved new academic programs designed to address contemporary challenges facing the continent, including advanced programs in artificial intelligence and mechanical systems engineering. These initiatives reflect PAU's commitment to addressing critical areas, especially in technology innovation and sustainable development.

The Senate also made important decisions regarding student welfare and academic standards. New age limits for admissions for the next Call were approved, setting the maximum age at 25 years for male and 28 years for female Master's students, and 28 years for male and 30 years for female PhD students. The meeting reinforced the need for comprehensive student insurance coverage and emphasized the operationalization of Student Disciplinary Committees across all institutes to strengthen institutional governance.

Research and innovation received significant attention with the approval of harmonized research grant processes across all PAU institutes. The Senate also mandated the establishment of a PAU Publications Committee to enhance research visibility and collaboration.

The meeting marked a milestone in continental accreditation efforts by approving a CAMES accreditation roadmap beginning with selected institutes. This initiative represents a significant step toward continental recognition of PAU qualifications and enhanced academic credibility.

Strategic partnerships dominated discussions, with several important collaborations receiving approval. Notable among these were partnerships with UNESCO-IICBA for teacher training programs, cooperation agreements with Italian research institutions, and the launch of the UNU-VIE-PAVEU Hub. The Senate also authorized collaboration on a Professional Master's program in Regional Integration, directly supporting continental integration objectives.

The meeting also addressed institutional development priorities, including the establishment of digital libraries following PAULESI's successful model. Additionally, the Senate approved the operationalization of satellite centers across Africa, with the aim of achieving 50 centers across the continent. These initiatives will significantly broaden PAU's continental reach and accessibility.

The outcomes of this Senate meeting reinforce PAU's role as a catalyst for continental transformation through higher education. By aligning academic offerings with Africa's strategic priorities and strengthening institutional frameworks, PAU continues to build capacity for addressing the continent's most pressing challenges. The approved initiatives will enhance the university's ability to produce graduates equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development across Africa.