A high-level delegation from the Pan African University (PAU) accompanied by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan has paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, in Abuja to seek the Federal Government’s support and endorsement for the second phase of funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The delegation comprised the PAU Rector, Prof. Jean Koulidiati; the PAU Vice Rector, Prof. Bolanle Idowu Akeredolu-Ale; the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode O. Adebowale; and the Director of the Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute (PAULESI), Prof. Mubo A. Sonibare. The visit was undertaken on behalf of PAULESI, which is hosted at the University of Ibadan.

Upon arrival, the Honourable Minister warmly welcomed the delegates and introduced them to his team. In turn, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan formally introduced the PAU team to the Minister and provided a provided a brief overview of the establishment of the Pan African University, highlighting PAULESI and its sister institutes.

The primary purpose of the visit was to solicit the Minister’s support and secure the Federal Government of Nigeria’s commitment to the second phase of AfDB funding for PAULESI. The delegation noted that the Bank’s initial support, which constituted the first phase, played a major catalytic role in the operationalization of the university. The proposed five-year second phase, is contingent upon the support of each of the countries hosting the PAU institutes, and will focus on four major components: enhancing the regional scope and relevance of academic programs and R&D in areas of skills needs; enhancing student financial support; strengthening PAU governance; and project coordination.

The delegation also communicated that a letter had previously been submitted to the Federal Ministry of Education, requesting the government's commitment to the AfDB for financing the project, as well as a commitment letter for the Phase II funding. They emphasized the strategic importance of this funding for the university’s sustainability, particularly for PAULESI. The delegation stressed that the Federal Government's support is vital for ensuring the continuity of PAU's academic programmes, scholarships, and infrastructure development.

In his response, the Honourable Minister of Education assured the delegation of his support for the PAU request and confirmed the Federal Government's financial commitment to the second phase of funding. This visit marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to secure sustainable funding for the Pan African University. With the Honourable Minister's assurance of support, there is optimism that the implementation of the second phase of the project will be achieved, further reinforcing the partnership between the Nigerian government and the Pan African University, and strengthening the African Union’s mission to promote world-class postgraduate education, research, and innovation for the advancement of the African continent.