RismadarVoice Reporters
November 14, 2026
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has reportedly entered into an academic partnership with Henan Polytechnic University (HPU), China, to strengthen research cooperation in artificial intelligence, environmental management, oil and gas development and other scientific disciplines.
The agreement was said to have been signed on November 11 during a visit by an AKSU delegation to Henan Polytechnic University in Jiaozuo, Henan Province.
According to details of the visit, the partnership is intended to promote joint research, technological innovation, academic exchanges and capacity development between the institutions.
The President of Henan Polytechnic University, Professor Zhao Tongqian, reportedly welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the importance of international research partnerships in advancing scientific development.
He identified artificial intelligence, satellite-based remote sensing, environmental monitoring and digital navigation as potential areas of cooperation.
Other proposed research areas include mining engineering, geology, water injection systems, nuclear waste management and advanced technologies for industrial applications.
The Vice-Chancellor of AKSU, Professor Otoabasi Etim Akpan, expressed interest in the partnership, particularly its potential contribution to marine science, environmental protection and petroleum-related research.
He noted that Akwa Ibom State’s coastal location provides opportunities for scientific investigations relevant to the maritime and oil and gas industries.
The university’s Director of Advancement, International Collaborations and Linkages, Dr Ini-Ibehe Nabuk, said the collaboration was expected to encourage knowledge exchange, academic development and research cooperation.
The proposed areas of engagement also extend to chemistry, chemical engineering, computer science, information technology, emergency management, business administration and economics.
During the visit, the AKSU delegation reportedly toured research facilities at the Chinese university, including laboratories specialising in safety, mapping and materials science.
The delegation also participated in demonstrations involving gravity testing and traditional Chinese Taichi practices.
The reported agreement forms part of AKSU’s broader efforts to strengthen international academic relationships and expand research opportunities.
The university has separately confirmed recent partnerships with the Institute of Oceanology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power.
Those collaborations cover areas including marine research, renewable energy, wastewater management, academic exchanges and joint research activities.
The proposed cooperation with Henan Polytechnic University could provide additional opportunities for researchers and students, although specific funding commitments, implementation schedules and research projects have not been publicly established.
