As part of its commitment to regional integration and international academic cooperation, a high-level delegation from Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Nigeria, embarked on a significant working visit to Senegal and The Gambia from September 19 to 24, 2025. The visit coincided with the renowned U6+ Consortium of African Universities Conference, which brought together Vice Chancellors and academic leaders from across Africa to explore opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and shared academic growth.
Led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor L. F. Oladimeji, the delegation also included the University Registrar, Dr. K. A. Oladimeji, and the Director of the Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage and International Cooperation (CRIIC), Dr. Yusuf Suleiman. The team engaged in high-level discussions with leading institutions, policy makers, and stakeholders to broaden Al-Hikmah University’s regional presence and collaborative efforts.
On Friday, September 19, the delegation visited two prominent institutions in Senegal: Cheikh Anta Diop University, the country’s oldest and most prestigious public university, and Supdeco Global Business School, a top-tier private institution. Discussions at both universities centered on joint academic programmes, faculty and student exchange, and research collaboration. Both institutions agreed in principle to enter into formal partnerships with Al-Hikmah University, with Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) set to be reviewed and signed virtually in the coming weeks. The delegation also visited the historic Mosque of Sheikh Ibrahim Niyas in Kaolack, Senegal, where special prayers were offered for the continued growth, success, and global impact of Al-Hikmah University. The visit highlighted the University’s commitment to spiritual values alongside academic excellence.
During their visit to The Gambia, the delegation toured the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET) in Banjul, where they were warmly received by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Nazmat Surajudeen Bakinde. The discussions centered on fostering technical collaboration, with a particular focus on leveraging USET’s cutting-edge engineering laboratories to support Al-Hikmah University’s recently launched engineering programmes. This partnership is designed to offer Al-Hikmah students practical, hands-on experience aligned with industry standards, enriching their academic journey and better preparing them for future careers. By combining resources and expertise, both institutions aim to enhance the quality of engineering education and promote innovation. This collaboration not only strengthens academic ties between the two universities but also contributes to the development of skilled professionals capable of meeting the region’s growing technological demands.
A highlight of the visit was the U6+ Consortium Conference, officially launched on September 22. Professor Oladimeji joined fellow Vice Chancellors from across Africa to advance key goals such as promoting inter-university mobility, collaborative research initiatives, and innovation in higher education. The conference provided an important platform for universities to share ideas, foster partnerships, and develop strategies aimed at enhancing academic quality and relevance across the continent. By bringing together leaders from diverse institutions, the event strengthened networks and encouraged deeper academic integration within Africa. This gathering underscored the collective commitment to driving progress in African higher education through cooperation and shared resources. It also highlighted the role of the U6+ Consortium in facilitating collaboration and innovation that benefits students, faculty, and broader communities. Overall, the conference marked a significant step toward fostering a more connected and dynamic African academic landscape.
Another key highlight of the visit was a high-level diplomatic engagement with The Gambia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, where the Vice Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University and the Director of the Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage and International Cooperation (CRIIC) met with the Honorable Minister and senior officials. Discussions centred on strategic collaboration in manpower development, student scholarships, and capacity-building initiatives for academic and non-academic staff. The Honorable Minister expressed strong interest in developing structured educational partnerships that would facilitate the enrolment of Gambian students and government personnel at Al-Hikmah University for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
In recognition of Al-Hikmah University’s steady and remarkable growth since its establishment in 2005, the Minister extended a special invitation to the Vice Chancellor to return to The Gambia for a strategic forum involving Islamic private universities and key education stakeholders. This forum aims to showcase Al-Hikmah University’s success story and operational model, providing valuable insights to emerging institutions in The Gambia. By sharing best practices in university development, academic quality, and institutional sustainability, the event seeks to guide these institutions toward achieving similar growth and excellence. The invitation reflects the high regard in which Al-Hikmah University is held within the region, highlighting its role as a leading example of faith-based private higher education in West Africa. The meeting emphasized the university’s growing reputation as a model institution, demonstrating how dedication to quality education and sustainable management can contribute to long-term success. This strategic engagement reinforces Al-Hikmah University’s commitment to collaboration and regional development, fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening ties between universities in West Africa. The forum promises to be a significant milestone in promoting educational advancement and institutional excellence across the region.
To strengthen its presence in The Gambia, the delegation met with Binnibi Consultant on September 22 to finalize plans for establishing a liaison office in Banjul. This office will act as a regional hub dedicated to student recruitment and university outreach activities, enhancing Al-Hikmah University’s engagement with prospective students and local communities. By setting up this strategic base, the university aims to expand its influence and foster closer connections within the region, supporting its vision of becoming a leading educational institution across West Africa.
On the same day, the delegation engaged in productive discussions with the management of the International Open University (IOU) in The Gambia, focusing on potential collaborations such as joint degree programmes, online course development, and faculty exchange initiatives. These talks aimed to strengthen academic partnerships and expand educational opportunities between the institutions. The visit culminated in a dinner hosted by alumni of Al-Hikmah University residing in The Gambia, where former students reaffirmed their commitment to supporting their alma mater. They emphasized their dedication to aiding student recruitment efforts, enhancing community outreach, and promoting the university’s brand across the region. The event was graced by distinguished alumni, including Prof. Wahid Damilola Olanipekun, former Director of Research and Innovation at American International University, Gambia; Isatou Jobe, Counsellor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad; Musa Ceesay, owner of Barsa Enterprise, a company involved in pharmaceuticals, construction, and building materials; and Papa Malick Khadi, the second-ranking official at the Court of Appeal in Gambia. This gathering not only showcased the strong network and influence of Al-Hikmah University’s graduates but also highlighted the university’s strategic focus on expanding its reach and impact across West Africa. The multi-country engagement represents a significant step toward realizing Al-Hikmah University’s vision of becoming a truly global institution with deep-rooted connections and collaborations throughout the West African region.