Thirty-six International Students of the University of Jos undergoing various Postgraduateprogrammes have been advised to become Brand Ambassadors of the University whenever they return to their countries of origin.
The Students who are on the verge of graduating were hosted to a reception organized by the Universityof Jos, African Centre of Excellence in PhytomedicineResearch and Development(ACEPRD) at its Bauchi Road Staff Quarters Office, where they are undergoing their various programmes.
Addressing the Students who are from Liberia, Uganda, Kenya, Mali, Niger and Togo, Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Seddi Sebastian Maimako represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor IshayaTanko applauded the determination of the students to pursue their academic aspirations and encouraged them to use theknowledge gained for the development of their home countries.
Tanko disclosed that the University will create a Directorate of International Relations to ensure International Students acclimatize quickly for robust performance.
Also speaking, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Grey Ejikeme noted that no country has the monopoly of knowledge and skills explaining that it is good for people to visit other countries to see and learn how others do their things in order to exchange ideas and experiences while also appreciating the differences in culture and language.
Centre Leader, African Centre of Excellence in Phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD), Professor John Aguiyi challenged the Students to make a difference by contributingtheirquota to the development of healthcare in their countries and beyond.
The Centre leader also revealed thatissues concerning requirements for their Resident Permits had been fully resolved.
Goodwill messages werepresented by the Executive Director, Alumni Relations, MrSamuel Mwansat,Mrs. Na’omiEmbaga of the Advancement Office, Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Professor Jacob Kolawole through Dr. Patricia Odumosu among others.
Some of the Students, Konah Morris Togbah and Austin NeidotehCholoply both from Liberia and Francis KodjoAkpadja from Togo described their experience as worthwhile saying the quality of research they have undertaken will impact positively on the lives of their countrymen.
The Students, however, enumerated some challenges encountered during their stay in Unijos that need to be urgently tackled.
The occasion featured dance presentations as well as and dinner.