The Vice-Rector, International Affairs, Irkutsk National Research University, Russia, Dr. Stepan Bykov, on a working visit to Nigeria, has indicated an interest in evolving a working partnership between Covenant University and Irkutsk National Research University. Dr. Bykov said one-fifth of the international student population at his university in Russia were Nigerians, and as such, it was his desire to visit Covenant and see prospective areas of collaboration to work on.

Dr. Bykov, who came in the company of the Head, International Affairs, Anna Melentera, Irkusk National Research University, is open to academic and research collaboration in the area of electrical engineering, considering the outstanding position of Covenant University in the Times Higher Education Subject Rankings.

According to him, Irkutsk National Research University is proposing prospects planned for implementation to cover academic mobility and the launch of double degree programmes, and at the same time sees the possibility of running a Russian language initiative as a summer school programme for those in academics.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Professor Abiodun H. Adebayo, said Covenant, as an institution committed to global best practices, is open to collaboration. According to him, considering the length of the existence of Irkutsk National Research University, both institutions would have the opportunity to learn from each other, share experiences, and develop partnerships to advance knowledge.

Professor Adebayo posited that Covenant has an international outlook and will be interested in initiating the process of getting the Russian language initiative underway.

The meeting had in attendance the Acting Registrar, Mrs. Regina Tobi-David; Director, Financial Services, Pastor Olugbenga Kiki; Director, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Professor Omotayo Osibanjo; and Director, International Office and Linkages, Dr. Isaac Akinwunmi.