Kentucky State University (KSU) and the University of Buea (UB), located in Cameroon, have taken a significant step forward in their global partnership by signing an Addendum to their existing Memorandum of Understanding. This new agreement paves the way for collaborative educational programs with an emphasis on faculty and student exchange opportunities.
While not a legally binding contract, the Addendum reflects the mutual interest of both institutions in building dynamic, international academic relationships. The focus is on expanding global learning, research, and professional development experiences for both students and faculty.
Key areas of collaboration include:
- Student Exchange: Both universities will prioritize student mobility through short- and long-term programs, degree and non-degree study opportunities, and scholarships covering tuition.
- Faculty Exchange: Opportunities for UB and KSU faculty to serve as international visitors, ranging from short-term scholars (up to six months) to long-term research professors (up to five years).
- Research & Grants: Collaboration on research projects in areas of shared academic interest, including joint grant applications.
- Academic Opportunities: Co-hosting of conferences, seminars, and workshops to foster global knowledge exchange. Addendum II also permits the development of a 2+2 dual degree program for undergraduate students. In the 2+2 model, students who successfully complete the first two years of undergraduate study at UB will then transfer to KSU to study for the last two years. Students that successfully complete all degree requirements of the collaborative program will be granted diplomas and/or bachelor’s degrees from KSU.
- Fulbright Support: KSU will assist UB faculty in applying for Fulbright Foreign Scholar programs, including advisor matching, institutional support, and hosting responsibilities.
Aquaculture is one major program of interest between the institutions. UB Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ngomo Horace Manga, noted the national need to increase aquaculture activities explaining that, “Cameroon imports a huge percentage of its fish, so native production does not meet up to national demand. In Cameroon, we have a lot of streams so the capacity for Cameroonians to develop aquaculture activities is high.”
A vast majority of UB’s student population is also involved in aquaculture and allied fields, emphasizing the benefit for both institutions to deepen collaborations in this area.
In addition, if USDA funding becomes available, KSU faculty will lead student study tours to UB, providing opportunities for project-based research and direct engagement with UB faculty and students.
“The partnership between Kentucky State University and the University of Buea strengthens our shared mission to prepare students for a global future,” said Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, KSU President. “Through student and faculty exchanges and research collaborations, we are building meaningful connections that extend beyond borders.”
As part of the agreement, each institution will host one to two students annually for a semester or academic year. The host institution will provide tuition scholarships, while students are responsible for room, board, and related costs.
This Addendum reinforces KSU’s commitment to global engagement, academic excellence, and fostering cross-cultural understanding.