From left to right. Dr. Ikechukwu Ndukwe (Deputy Registrar), Dr. Chris Obialor (Registrar), Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Edeh (Deputy Vice Chancellor), Prof. Isidore Diala (Vice Chancellor), Prof. Pietro Picuno (Professor of Agricultural, Ecological and Biosystems Engineering University of Basilicata), Rev. Fr. Duru Boniface (Founder Azione Verde University), Prof. Udo Nwokocha (University of Librarian), Ms Vivian Uwakwe (Executive Secretary), and Mr. Sunday Kayode (Director Of Publicity & ICT).
Azione Verde University has taken a step toward building an international partnership with the University of Basilicata in Italy.
This followed a meeting with Prof. Pietro Picuno, Professor of Agricultural, Ecological and Biosystems Engineering at the University of Basilicata. The meeting focused on how both universities can work together to advance agroecology, strengthen agricultural education, and create opportunities for academic exchange between Africa and Europe.
Prof. Picuno spoke about his university's work in promoting agroecology in institutions around the world, especially in Africa. According to him, international partnerships are key to sharing knowledge, driving research, and equipping students to tackle current challenges in agriculture and the environment. He also noted that accreditation would be important in advancing the proposed partnership.
In his response, the Founder of Azione Verde University welcomed the idea and expressed strong interest in bringing the partnership to life. He assured Prof. Picuno that all required documents are available and will be forwarded for review.
Members of the University management also affirmed the institution's readiness for the collaboration, pointing to its facilities, equipment, and commitment to academic excellence.
Another important part of the discussion was Prof. Picuno's advice to the new university on teaching and learning. He encouraged Azione Verde University to stay open to new ideas and to keep its academic programmes responsive to the changing needs of society. He added that preparing students for the future goes beyond traditional teaching and requires flexibility and innovation.
The meeting shows Azione Verde University's commitment to forming strong global partnerships that will create greater opportunities for its students and staff.
As conversations continue, the University is optimistic about working with the University of Basilicata and other European institutions in areas such as agroecology, joint research, and development of relevant academic programmes.