UNIZIK Deepens Nigeria–Brazil Academic Partnership at International Conference in Brazil
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has reaffirmed its commitment to internationalisation and global academic excellence through its active participation in the 4th LASUCAS International Conference, held from July 1–3, 2026, at the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Brazil.
The conference, which brought together scholars, policymakers, and academic leaders from Nigeria, Brazil, and other emerging economies, focused on advancing South–South cooperation through research, education, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Representing the University were the Coordinator of the Brazilian Language and Cultural Centre, Prof. Obianuju Emmanuela Agbasi, and Prof. Uchechukwu Collins Nwogwugwu of the Institute of Social Policy and Strategic Studies.
One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation delivered by Prof. Agbasi on Nigeria–Brazil Economic Relations, where she examined the transformative role of trade, education, technology, agriculture, and cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations and driving sustainable development between both nations.
Beyond the academic presentations, the conference provided a strategic platform for fostering international partnerships. Discussions centred on expanding collaborative research, facilitating staff and student exchange programmes, promoting postgraduate partnerships, and strengthening institutional networks among participating universities.
A major outcome of the conference was the approval by the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU) to provide institutional support for the establishment and advancement of the Brazilian Language and Cultural Centre at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, a development expected to further deepen linguistic, cultural, and academic cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil.
The University’s participation at the 4th LASUCAS International Conference represents another significant milestone in its internationalisation agenda. It not only showcased UNIZIK’s growing research capacity on the global stage but also opened new pathways for strategic academic partnerships, collaborative research, student and staff mobility, and cultural diplomacy.
As Nnamdi Azikiwe University continues to expand its global footprint, the outcomes of the conference are expected to strengthen teaching, research, innovation, and intercultural engagement while enhancing the activities of the Brazilian Language and Cultural Centre. Through such international collaborations, the University remains steadfast in its vision of promoting academic excellence, innovation, and meaningful South–South cooperation in higher education.