The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) is set to deepen its international academic and research partnerships following a landmark visit by Ms. Yan Yuqing, the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos.
Central to the visit was her pledge to foster stronger institutional connections between FUNAAB and Chinese agricultural research bodies.
Ms. Yuqing emphasized the importance of research collaboration and knowledge exchange, promising to support joint seminars, strengthen laboratory networks, and facilitate partnerships that will allow FUNAAB researchers to engage with leading institutions in Beijing and beyond.
Her commitment is expected to open new frontiers in agricultural innovation and development, positioning the university as a key player in Sino-Nigerian academic cooperation.
Highlighting ongoing supports, Ms. Yuqing pointed at China’s investment in the Chinese Training Centre hosted by FUNAAB, which promotes Chinese language, culture, and traditional medicine.
She announced plans to expand a charitable initiative within Ogun State, aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged students and staff of the university.
On his part, FUNAAB’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatunde Kehinde, expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, describing it as a significant milestone in the university’s longstanding relationship with China.
He acknowledged the transformative impact of past collaborations, particularly in capacity building, language training, and academic exchange.
According to him, FUNAAB is eager to establish a dedicated Chinese Language School to serve the broader Ogun State region.
Also, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, outlined key areas where the university hopes to expand collaboration, including joint degrees, staff development, and research in engineering, medicine, and renewable energy.
He praised Ms. Yuqing’s integrity and responsiveness, noting the swift fulfillment of commitments made to the university.
The delegation included Mr. Li Zhensheng, a researcher with the China-Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council (CAETPC), who identified six strategic sectors for partnership—ranging from food security and manufacturing to trade services and education.
He proposed deeper ties with Chinese medical practitioners as well as joint ventures in mushroom cultivation and medicinal research.
The visit resulted in a tour of the university’s key research and development assets, including the 3MW Hybrid Solar Station, Greenhouse Complex, and the Central Laboratories at the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment (CEADESE), underscoring FUNAAB’s readiness for high-level international collaboration.
