The University of Greater Manchester (UoGM) and Talent School of Business (TSB) have formalised a new academic and research partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a ceremony held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The agreement outlines a collaboration focused on academic exchange, joint degree programmes, research initiatives, and the development of new learning pathways in business, law, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The initiative includes the establishment of a Centre for AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), which will serve as a regional hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
The signing was witnessed by key representatives from both institutions. UoGM was represented by its Pro Vice Chancellor (Academics), Dr. Greg Walker, who stood in for Vice Chancellor Prof. George Holmes.
Others in attendance included Professor Celestine Iwendi, Head of the Centre of Intelligence of Things (CIoTH), and Dr. Ike Uhumuavbi, Lead for Postgraduate Research and Knowledge Exchange in the School of Law. TSB was represented by its President and CEO, Mr. Mehdi Zarrouk, alongside Mr. Effa Etta of Inversion Ltd.
Speaking at the ceremony, the UK High Commissioner to Côte d’Ivoire, Ms Catherine Brooker, said the partnership marked a significant step in educational cooperation between the UK and West Africa.
“Education is a key driver of economic growth and intercultural understanding. This partnership will help strengthen ties between our two nations,” she said.
Professor Iwendi outlined the practical goals of the initiative, including the promotion of digital literacy and entrepreneurship across Africa.
“This will be the first British presence in a Côte d’Ivoire university,” he said. “We want our people to learn about AI and the Internet of Things, or what I call the Intelligence of Things. It is not just about having a job—it is about creating jobs and building entrepreneurial capacity.”
He added, “Africa is too rich. Our problem is our mentality. If we can learn AI to be critical thinkers, we can change and lead globally.”
TSB President Mehdi Zarrouk described the partnership as timely and aligned with TSB’s broader vision of promoting technology-led education. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would support the continent’s evolving educational and economic needs.
The event was also attended by the Ambassador of Tunisia to Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. Zier Saadaoui; Acting Head of the Nigerian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire, Mrs. Ira Wika; Chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. Amol N’Gattia; and TSB Deputy Director, Dr. Imen Amor.
According to the agreement, the institutions will jointly develop executive education programmes, facilitate faculty and student exchanges, and explore opportunities for double degree awards. The collaboration also includes plans to align applied research with industry needs and expand digital development efforts across the region.
