IPS And University Of Ilorin Sign MoU

The Institute of Professional Studies has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Ilorin, Kwara State Nigeria, a prestigious university ranked first among all Nigerian Universities. A press briefing was held as part of activities marking the historical phenomenon between the two institutions of higher learning at the School of Research and Graduate Studies, IPS, Legon.
The vice chancellor of Ilorin University, Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oleyede applauded the Institute of Professional Studies for its steady growth within a relatively short period of time through what he described as vision and teamwork under the leadership of Professor Joshua Alabi.

He described the collaboration between the two Universities as a significant step towards unifying the sub-region which is essential due to the inevitable need for the production of people who are well vested with in-depth knowledge of Africa and the world at large.

He added that the academic and professional nature of IPS makes it a unique university and an appropriate partner in the provision of higher education. Professor Oleyede noted that the inability of African universities to be listed on the recent World University Rankings should not be allowed to propagate a sense of low self esteem in African Universities, adding that sources of such studies are sometimes questionable.

The Rector of IPS, Professor Joshua Alabi noted that IPS will tap from the knowledge base and oil experience of Nigeria through Ilorin University, to run oil related programmes in Accounting as well as PHD programems among others.
The agreement signed on the 20th of April 2011 is expected to be mutually beneficial to both universities. Among other things, the benefits will include the following:

1. Distant education and in structural delivery
2. Exchange internship opportunities for students
3. Joint research cooperation and curriculum development
4. Organization seminars, academic interactive sessions and professional activities
5. Exchange of educational and relevant cultural information
6. Linkage of automated and virtual libraries.
7. Joint supervision of post graduate projects and thesis
8. Exchange of professorial External Assessors and external examiners
9. Production of joint annual report.
The Institute of Professional Studies was granted a presidential charter which gave it a fully fledged university status in 2008.

GIFTY ANDOH APPIAH (giftdot@yahoo.com)