Landmark MOU with Côte d'Ivoire Institution Enhances Global Research

Alabama A&M University has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with Université Peleforo Gon Coulibaly (UPGC) in Côte d'Ivoire on the coast of West Africa, marking a first-of-its-kind agreement that will significantly broaden the horizons for both institutions. This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), confirmed by the Alabama A&M Board of Trustees, sets the stage for an unprecedented collaboration in research, education, and cultural exchange between the two universities. 

The MOU is designed to establish a robust framework for coordination and cooperation, enabling Alabama A&M and UPGC to engage in a wide array of collaborative activities across disciplines. “This partnership represents a significant milestone in our University's global engagement strategy,” said Dr. Majed El-Dweik, Alabama A&M vice president of Research & Economic Development. “We are thrilled to work with UPGC to create new opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in meaningful research and educational exchanges.”

The agreement is poised to foster scientific and educational cooperation that will lead to the development of joint research projects, the exchange of technical information, and collaborative training programs. It also aims to promote the exchange of students and faculty members between the two institutions, with a particular focus on agriculture, food science, animal science, agricultural economics, and other critical fields. “By sharing our expertise and resources, we can address some of the most pressing challenges in these disciplines while providing our students with invaluable international experiences,” added Dr. Lamin Kassama, Alabama A&M professor of Food Engineering/Processing.

The MOU encourages both universities to nominate undergraduate and graduate students for exchange programs, either as degree-seeking or non-degree participants, with the number of students exchanged to be determined by mutual agreement. Additionally, faculty exchanges will be tailored to align with the academic and research interests of both institutions, further enhancing the collaborative efforts.

In line with the agreement, AAMU and UPGC will also engage in joint scholarly ventures, including research publications, lectures, conferences, and symposia. The institutions will share scientific and technical knowledge, facilitate technology transfer, and collaborate on curriculum development in critical agricultural disciplines such as soil and crop sciences, agronomy, plant pathology, food sciences, animal and poultry sciences, and agricultural economics.

Dweik noted the MOU will remain in place for five years, with the potential for renewal. “This partnership will continue to elevate Alabama A&M's presence on the global stage, showcasing the talents and achievements of our students and faculty.”