The Chargé d’Affaire at the French Embassy in Abuja, Jean-François Hasperue, has expressed excitement over being at the University of Ibadan.
Mr Hasperue, who spoke during a courtesy call on the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, said that he first heard of UI as a Centre of Excellence when he was in East Africa, and had always looked forward to visiting the premier university.
He disclosed that he resumed duties in Abuja only five months ago, and when the opportunity came for him to represent the French ambassador in UI, he was very happy.
Mr Hasperue, who came to renew the Memorandum of Understanding between UI and the French Government over the Institut Français Recherché en Afrique, (IFRA), situated within the Institute of African Studies, said the over 30 years partnership had been mutually beneficial.
He said that the focus of the Institute had been research because it is one of the tools to better understand the relationship between Africa and Europe.
Mr Hasperue said the French Embassy would reinforce exchange in research and scientific collaboration.
He disclosed that a new project that would include fabrication laboratories, the exchange and training of more researchers, and the award of more scholarships is soon to be embarked upon.
He commended the IFRA for a job well done, adding that the French Embassy cares very much about the relationship with the University of Ibadan.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Aderonke M. Baiyeroju received the French team on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor.
She stated that the University of Ibadan had gained a lot from the partnership with IFRA over the past 30 years.
Professor Baiyeroju said UI cherishes its being able to keep the Nigerian heritage, thus becoming a repository of knowledge and culture.
IFRA Nigeria is one of the 27 public research institutes under the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, based overseas.
