Events and News
AUST SIGNS MOU WITH NAPTHALI PM GROUP TO ADVANCE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN RESEARCH
AUST, through its CPD Unit, signed an MoU with Naphtali PM (PTY) Ltd to strengthen capacity development, research, and innovation.
The agreement was signed at AUST, Galadimawa, Abuja, in the presence of university leadership.
The partnership will establish certificate and executive education programs.
It also promotes collaborative research and commercialization initiatives.
The MoU will run from 2025 to 2028, fostering academic–industry collaboration.
Â
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Naphtali and Naphtali PM (PTY) Ltd, a South African-based organization, to strengthen capacity development, research, and innovation.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at the AUST campus in Galadimawa, Abuja. The event was witnessed by the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, the Coordinator of the CPD Unit, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, and representatives of Naphtali PM Group.
The agreement, which will run from 2025 to 2028, outlines strategic areas of collaboration between both institutions. Under the terms of the MoU, AUST and Naphtali PM Group will jointly establish certificate programmes in Continuing Professional Development (CPD), Research, and Innovation under the Department of Public Policy. The partnership will also focus on the development and delivery of executive education programmes tailored to the evolving skill needs of professionals, practitioners, and policymakers.
In addition, both parties will collaborate on research, innovation, and commercialization projects, while sharing expertise and resources to ensure the delivery of high-quality and impactful programmes.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha emphasized that the partnership reflects AUST’s commitment to equipping professionals across Africa with relevant, future-ready skills that bridge the gap between academia and industry. Representatives of Naphtali PM Group expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration and their readiness to work with AUST in delivering executive programmes that foster professional growth and economic development.
The MoU provides a sustainable platform for academic–industry collaboration and reaffirms AUST’s mission to drive innovation, knowledge transfer, and capacity development across Africa.
AUST AND JOKPE FOUNDATION PAY COURTESY VISIT TO FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION TO ADVANCE VOCATIONAL TRAINING
AUST, JOKPE Foundation, and key stakeholders paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Education.
Discussions focused on vocational training and youth empowerment through artisan skills.
The Ministry acknowledged the proposal and recommended key adjustments.
Conditions included trainer certification and scheduling during academic vacations.
Parties agreed to revise and resubmit the proposal for approval.
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit, in collaboration with JOKPE Foundation, paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Education, Department of Technology and Science Education (Vocational Education and Training Division), Abuja, on 11th September 2025, to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education in Nigeria.
The meeting was held at the Ministry’s headquarters and brought together key officials from the Federal Ministry of Education, representatives of AUST, JOKPE Foundation, and the Federal Science and Technical College, Orozo, FCT.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Education were the Deputy Director of Vocational Education and Training, officials of the Vocational Education and Training Department, including Mr. Mohammed (Legal Officer), Mr. Ayokunle, Mrs. Yakubu Fatima, and other Ministry officials. The AUST delegation comprised Dr. Vitalis Anye, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, and Mr. Okwunwanne Emmanuel Ifeanyi, while Engr. Nwosa Lucky (Founder) and Mrs. Rosemary represented JOKPE Foundation. The Principal of the Federal Science and Technical College, Orozo was also present.
The meeting commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem and an opening prayer, followed by formal introductions by all parties. Delivering the welcome remarks on behalf of the Director of Vocational Education and Training, the Deputy Director reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to initiatives that promote technical and vocational education as a critical tool for national development.
During the presentations, Engr. Nwosa Lucky of JOKPE Foundation highlighted the growing challenge of youth unemployment and its link to rising crime rates. He emphasized the importance of equipping Nigerian youths with practical artisan skills such as welding, plumbing, aluminium fabrication, and related trades. He further noted that this vision aligns with the commitment of Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, President of AUST, to advancing vocational education. Engr. Lucky proposed the Federal Science and Technical College, Orozo as the training venue, citing its modern and well-equipped facilities.
In his presentation, Dr. Vitalis Anye, Acting Dean of the School of Engineering and Coordinator of AUST Inspire, provided an overview of AUST, highlighting its pan-African outlook, academic excellence, and recent expansion into undergraduate programmes. He also introduced AUST Inspire as the University’s entrepreneurship and innovation arm, focused on enterprise development and vocational training.
Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, Coordinator of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit of AUST, outlined the mandate, achievements, and ongoing programmes of the CPD Unit. She emphasized CPD’s role in bridging skill gaps through professional and vocational training, and expressed AUST’s readiness to collaborate with JOKPE Foundation on the proposed artisan professional courses.
Following the presentations, discussions centered on the proposal earlier submitted by JOKPE Foundation to the Ministry. While acknowledging the relevance and potential impact of the proposal, the Ministry requested revisions to address specific operational concerns. The Principal of the Federal Science and Technical College, Orozo, stressed the need for a train-the-trainer programme for instructors and advised that vocational training activities be conducted strictly during students’ vacation periods. These conditions, it was noted, must be formally incorporated into the revised proposal.
The Ministry advised JOKPE Foundation and AUST to revise and resubmit the proposal, incorporating the recommendations, for further administrative review and approval.
The meeting concluded with closing remarks from the Deputy Director of Vocational Education and Training and a group photograph of all participants. The engagement marked a significant step towards advancing collaborative vocational training initiatives aimed at reducing youth unemployment and enhancing skill acquisition in Nigeria.
AUST AND GLOBALTECH GRADUATE PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA STUDENTS AT JOINT CEREMONY MARKING GLOBALTECH'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY
AUST, through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Department, partnered with GlobalTech to advance technology-driven capacity building.
The collaboration focuses on delivering industry-relevant professional and technical training programs.
The partnership aims to bridge skills gaps between academia and the technology industry.
Participants will benefit from practical, hands-on learning and globally competitive certifications.
The initiative reinforces AUST’s commitment to innovation, employability, and digital transformation.
Â
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit, in partnership with GlobalTech, held a graduation ceremony for students who successfully completed various professional diploma programmes on 6th September 2025. The event marked the completion of programmes in Software Engineering, Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Data Analytics, Ethical Hacking, ICT/Systems Engineering, as well as the GlobalTech 1Million Tech Initiative.
The ceremony was particularly significant as it coincided with the 25th Anniversary of GlobalTech, celebrating both academic excellence and a major institutional milestone in technology education.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Godwin Asogbon, President and Founder of GlobalTech; Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, Coordinator of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) at AUST; Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu and Mr. Okwunwanne Emmanuel Ifeanyi, representatives of the CPD Unit at the AUSTInspire Innovation Hub; alongside industry partners and other invited guests.
The ceremony commenced with a procession of graduating students and dignitaries, followed by a group photograph session. Graduates later returned to the main venue for the official programme, which featured project exhibitions, induction of graduates, keynote addresses, testimonials, award presentations, and certificate conferment.
Graduating students showcased innovative projects during a pitching and exhibition session, including food-ordering and hotel-booking applications, as well as data analytics platforms.
Delivering the opening address, Dr. Godwin Asogbon reflected on the journey of GlobalTech over the past 25 years, highlighting its contributions to technology education and youth empowerment. He expressed pride in the partnership with AUST and congratulated the graduating students on their achievements.
In her address, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, speaking on behalf of the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, provided an overview of AUST’s mission, academic programmes, and commitment to STEM education and research excellence. She highlighted the role of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme under AUSTInspire in promoting lifelong learning, professional certification, and vocational skills development. She commended GlobalTech for its impactful training programmes and its 1Million Tech Initiative, describing the partnership as highly beneficial to youth development.
During the ceremony, Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu introduced the AUSTInspire Innovation Hub, outlining its mandate in entrepreneurship development, startup incubation, skills training, and innovation-driven collaboration.
Several graduating students delivered testimonials, sharing experiences of growth, challenges, and transformation through the programme. Awards and certificates were presented to graduates by Dr. Godwin Asogbon, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, and Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu, with official approval from AUST.
In a landmark announcement, Dr. Godwin Asogbon awarded scholarships of ₦500,000 each to 15 attendees under the GlobalTech 1Million Initiative, reaffirming GlobalTech’s commitment to youth empowerment and skills development.
The event concluded with recognition of GlobalTech’s partners, photo sessions, and closing remarks emphasizing sustained collaboration between AUST and GlobalTech in advancing digital skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship across Africa.
AUST AND AFRICAN FOOD SECURITY ACADEMY GRADUATES FIRST COHORT OF FOOD SECURITY PROFESSIONALS
AFOSA, in collaboration with AUST, graduated its first cohort of Food Security practitioners.
The event celebrated practical innovation and agricultural entrepreneurship.
Key speakers emphasized food security as a humanitarian and economic priority.
Graduates showcased a student-led product innovation.
The ceremony reaffirmed AUST and AFOSA’s commitment to agricultural development.
The African Food Security Academy (AFOSA), in collaboration with the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit, held its graduation ceremony on Sunday, 31st August 2025, celebrating the successful completion of the Professional Diploma in Food Security Practice programme.
The ceremony marked an important milestone in the partnership between AFOSA and AUST, reflecting their shared commitment to advancing agricultural innovation, food security, and sustainable development across Africa.
The event commenced with the formal procession of graduating students, followed by the official opening by the Master of Ceremony and Training Director of AFOSA, Mr. David Ibrahim, who emphasized the critical role of agriculture in addressing food insecurity and the Academy’s mission to equip young Africans with practical, solution-driven skills.
Delivering the keynote address, the Vice President of AFOSA, Dr. David Okpole, expressed appreciation to all participants and specially acknowledged the presence of the AUST delegation, represented by Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu, who stood in for the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, and the Coordinator of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha. Dr. Okpole described food security as a humanitarian issue that affects survival, stability, and human dignity, urging graduates to contribute actively to agricultural development regardless of their professional backgrounds.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of a student-led innovation project by the pioneer cohort. The Master of Ceremony unveiled a locally produced beverage, demonstrating AFOSA’s emphasis on hands-on training, innovation, and product development.
In his remarks, Professor Adams addressed structural challenges in Nigeria’s economy and emphasized agriculture as a key driver of economic growth. He congratulated the graduates, encouraged participating farmers to remain committed to their work, and expressed appreciation to AUST for its collaboration and support.
Representing AUST, Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu delivered a special address, congratulating the graduating students and acknowledging the contributions of Dr. David Okpole and Professor Victor Akpan to the success of the programme. He reaffirmed AUST’s founding vision under the Nelson Mandela Institution, supported by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, to provide world-class education in Africa. He highlighted AUST’s achievements in research, innovation, and enterprise development through the AUST Innovation Hub, including the incubation of over 100 founders and training of more than 500 Africans in creative and entrepreneurial skills.
Mr. Onwualu also underscored the importance of food security, referencing one of AUST’s flagship innovations—a drone for detecting plant diseases—as an example of technology-driven agricultural resilience. He further endorsed a proposal by the Master of Ceremony for the establishment of a dedicated production space for graduates, assuring AUST’s full support for the initiative.
Additional remarks were delivered by Professor Victor Akpan, who commended the graduates and emphasized the collective responsibility of strengthening Africa’s agricultural base. Certificates were subsequently presented to the graduating students by Mr. Chimdalu Onwualu and other distinguished guests.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Professor Adams, followed by media interviews conducted by the AUST media team with graduating students, participating farmers, and AFOSA leadership. Group photographs were taken with graduates, families, and invited guests.
The graduation ceremony underscored the strong collaboration between AFOSA and AUST in empowering Africans with practical skills, entrepreneurial capacity, and innovative solutions to address food security challenges across the continent.
AUST AND NIOB LAUNCH THIRD COHORT OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME
AUST and NIOB launched the third cohort of the Construction Management Program.
The event took place at AUSTInspire with key university and industry leaders present.
The program blends academic knowledge with industry best practices.
Participants were encouraged to maximize learning and networking opportunities.
The initiative continues to strengthen professional competence in construction management.
Â
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Abuja Branch, has officially launched the third cohort of the Construction Management Programme through the University’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Department.
The launch took place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the AUSTInspire Left Wing, and brought together key stakeholders from the University and the construction industry. Present at the event were the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, the Coordinator of the CPD Department, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, and representatives of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB).
The Construction Management Programme is coordinated by Dr. Ifeyinwa Obianyo, who also introduced the programme to AUST. Her sustained efforts and commitment have contributed significantly to the growth and continuity of the initiative, which has now successfully progressed into its third cohort.
In his opening remarks, Professor Onwualu encouraged participants to fully commit to the programme and take advantage of the professional networking opportunities available through such industry-focused training platforms.
The programme is designed to enhance both technical and managerial competencies of professionals within the construction industry. It combines academic knowledge with practical, real-world applications, equipping participants with skills needed to bridge existing gaps between industry practice and professional standards.
During the session, participants were briefed on the programme structure, objectives, and expected learning outcomes. The launch also provided opportunities for interaction and networking between facilitators and participants, setting a positive tone for a productive and impactful training experience.
AUST BECOMES OFFICIAL CISCO TRAINIG CENTER AS CISCO CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME LAUNCHES
AUST officially launched its Cisco Certification Program through the CPD Department.
The launch marked AUST’s recognition as an official Cisco Training Center.
Participants were introduced to globally relevant digital and cybersecurity skills.
Hands-on training sessions were conducted during the launch.
The program reinforces AUST’s commitment to digital transformation.
Â
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Department, has officially launched its Cisco Certification Programme, marking the University’s recognition as an official Cisco Training Center. The launch took place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the AUST Inspire Conference Room.
The event represents a significant milestone in AUST’s commitment to digital transformation, industry-relevant training, and global technology standards.
The Cisco Certification Programme was formally introduced by Dr. Chukwemeka Uwanaka, Head of the Department of Business Administration and Chair of External Linkages at AUST. His leadership and strategic engagement were instrumental in facilitating Cisco’s partnership with the University, positioning AUST as a certified Cisco Academy.
A major highlight of the event was the recognition of Mr. Adejoh John as the Cisco Academy Administrator and Lead Instructor for the programme at AUST. Having completed certified Cisco training, Mr. John will lead the technical delivery and practical components of the programme. His expertise played a key role in enabling AUST to meet Cisco’s accreditation requirements.
The launch was attended by key University officials, including the President of AUST, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu; the Coordinator of the CPD Department, Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha; Dr. Chukwemeka Uwanaka; and a diverse group of participants.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Onuoha welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of CPD certifications in enhancing employability, professional relevance, and lifelong learning. She encouraged participants to fully leverage the opportunity provided by the Cisco programme.
Addressing the audience, Professor Onwualu highlighted the importance of digital skills, self-reliance, and professional networking in today’s technology-driven world, urging participants to embrace continuous learning and innovation.
Following a brief networking session, participants engaged in a hands-on practical training facilitated by Mr. Adejoh John, who guided them through lab setup procedures and the installation of required technical tools.
The Cisco Academy at AUST offers a range of high-demand technology courses, including Cyber Security, Ethical Hacking, Data Analytics, IT Essentials, CyberOps Associate, Internet of Things (IoT) and Digital Transformation, and Network Technology.
Participants of the programme benefit from training at a certified Cisco Academy, dual certification from Cisco and AUST, and extensive hands-on learning through guided laboratory sessions.
The programme concluded at approximately 1:45 PM, with participants leaving well-equipped and motivated to advance their careers in the global digital economy.
AUST SIGNS MOU WITH AFFAT-AFRICA TO ADVANCE AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING
AUST signed an MoU with AFFAT-AFRICA to promote agricultural innovation and capacity building.
The partnership will deliver executive certificate programs under CPD.
Both parties will jointly develop curriculum, training, and certification.
The collaboration emphasizes technology-driven agricultural transformation.
The MoU strengthens academia–industry synergy in agriculture.
on June 23, 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Association of Farmers for Agricultural Transformation (AFFAT-AFRICA) to strengthen collaboration in agriculture, technology, and professional capacity development.
The MoU signing ceremony was held at Boardroom 2, Mandela Hall, AUST, and forms part of AUST’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) initiative under AUSTInspire, aimed at delivering industry-relevant certificate and executive education programmes.
The AUST delegation was led by the President of the University, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu, alongside Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, Head of Department and Coordinator of CPD; Madam Nsima Joseph, Head of Student Affairs; and Mr. Okwunwanne Emmanuel Ifeanyi, Marketing and IT Support Unit Lead for AUSTInspire and CPD. The AFFAT-AFRICA team was led by its President, Ambassador Akin Davis Tinuala, with Heather-Ronke Akanni, Country Director of the African Business Roundtable (ABR, France) and AFFAT-AFRICA Board Member and National Leader, as well as Mr. Stephen Miti Isioma, Service Innovation Desk Officer.
The session commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Prisca Nneka Onuoha, who welcomed participants and introduced the AUST delegation. Ambassador Akin Davis Tinuala reciprocated by introducing the AFFAT-AFRICA team and outlining the organization’s mission to advance agricultural transformation across Africa through innovation and technology.
In his remarks, Ambassador Tinuala explained that AFFAT-AFRICA was established in response to recurring food crises, with a focus on integrating science and technology into agricultural practices to enhance productivity and food security.
Delivering his address, Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu described the partnership as a strategic alignment with AUST’s core mandate of teaching and learning, research, and community development. He emphasized that AUST distinguishes itself through research excellence and community impact, noting that AUSTInspire was established to bridge the gap between academia and entrepreneurship.
Professor Onwualu further highlighted the importance of integrating technology into agriculture to move the sector beyond subsistence farming into a commercially viable and profitable enterprise. He noted that while signing MoUs is common, effective implementation is often the challenge, and proposed structured mechanisms to ensure accountability and successful execution of partnerships.
The MoU provides for the establishment of executive certificate programmes under AUST’s CPD platform. Under the agreement, AUST will provide infrastructure, curriculum approval, ICT support, and certification, while AFFAT-AFRICA will develop course content, provide expert facilitators, and manage logistics. Both parties will jointly promote the programmes, operating on a 50:50 revenue-sharing model, with provisions for quarterly reviews, shared marketing, and transparent budgeting.
The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation and signing of the MoU by both parties, followed by handshakes and closing remarks, marking a significant milestone in strengthening academic–industry collaboration for agricultural transformation in Africa.
AUST SIGNS MOU WITH NAPTHALI GROUP TO ADVANCE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN RESEARCH
The African University of Science and Technology(AUST), through its Continuing Professional Development(CPD) Unit has signed an MoU with Naphtali and Napthali PMÂ (PTY) LTD.