IPAM Builds Ties with Ohio University

By Abdul Razack Gbla

The Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) at the University of Sierra Leone (USL) hosted a significant meeting yesterday Tuesday 25 June 2024. Welcoming a delegation from Ohio University (OU) to forge and strengthen international academic and administrative partnerships.

In her address at the meeting, Professor Miriam Conteh-Morgan, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) of IPAM, highlighted the importance of this collaboration. “This is part of the DVC’s agenda, focusing on forging international partnerships. We are currently collaborating with the University of the West of Scotland on a training program for quality learning systems. Additionally, our Centre for Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Innovation is in partnership with the London School of Economics in training entrepreneurs. We are very pleased that this partnership with Ohio University is an extension of our international collaborations. We also have regional partnerships, such as with the University of Ghana,” said Professor Conteh-Morgan as she warmly welcomed the delegation to IPAM and USL.

Professor Assan Sarr from Ohio University praised the region, stating, “West Africa is a good area, and we are proud to be associated with IPAM.”

Dr. Gillian Ice, Associate Vice Provost for Global Affairs at Ohio University, expressed her appreciation for the ties between the institutions. “We have some students from the region and are looking to establish a national resource center. We look forward to a stronger partnership after signing an MOU with IPAM,” said Dr. Ice.

Dr. Hindowa Momoh, Dean of the Faculty of Governance and Leadership at IPAM, emphasized the institution’s diverse educational focus. “IPAM is not only a business school but also a public sector management school,” he stated.

The meeting is part of IPAM’s broader effort to expand its international collaborations. Under the leadership of Professor Conteh-Morgan, IPAM has actively engaged in partnerships that enhance educational opportunities and institutional development. In addition to Ohio University, IPAM has ongoing collaborations with the University of the West of Scotland and the London School of Economics.

The Ohio University delegation, which included Dr. Ice, Vicki Seefeld West, Associate Director of International Admissions, and Professor Assan Sarr, is set to explore further opportunities for collaboration with key stakeholders from IPAM, Fourah Bay College (FBC), and the School of Postgraduate Studies.

The agenda for the meeting covered critical areas for collaboration, including academic exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and administrative support strategies. The strategic engagement aims to leverage the strengths of both institutions to enhance educational quality and institutional capacity.

IPAM’s proactive approach in seeking international partnerships demonstrates its commitment to global education standards and its mission to provide high-quality education and research opportunities. The collaboration with Ohio University is expected to yield significant benefits for both institutions, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared knowledge.

The meeting marks another milestone in IPAM’s journey towards becoming a globally recognized institution. The outcomes of the meeting are highly anticipated, with both institutions looking forward to a productive partnership that will enhance their educational landscapes.

There were key contributions from Heads of Departments, Deans of Faculties, the Student Union President, the Registrar of the University of Sierra Leone and the meeting was chaired by Mr. Albert Bio the deputy registrar of IPAM.