WORLD EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:
I am bringing a World Class American International University to Nigeria-HRH Princess Dr. Moradeun Ogunlana, Founder/CEO African Women’s Health Project International
…committed to making education accessible and affordable for all, regardless of financial means
*’I will be empowering women and girls in Africa through education, healthcare, and economic development’
*AIUN shall offer professional courses mirroring international curriculum, examinations which shall attract students from other countries
*’We shall have a well formulated and rigorous curriculum with external examinations held through National Board of Medical Examiners and other professional boards from USA’
*African Women’s Health Project International is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of African women and their communities
*’President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has proposed a double-digit budget for the education sector in 2024, a significant improvement compared to previous years’
*”My message to millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora is one of hope, unity, and progress. Be proud of your country. The people in the Diaspora are actually the ambassadors of the country”
*BY STANLEY POTTER, EDUCATION Correspondent, Washington DC & GEORGE ELIJAH OTUMU/AMERICA Senior Investigative Editor
HRH Princess Dr. Moradeun Ogunlana, Founder/CEO African Women’s Health Project International, Women’s Health Project Intl.; Chair – AWHPI Global Foundation; a US based nonprofit foundation with Special Consultative ECOSOC Status approval with the United Nations, Executive Board, Fight Cancer Global; Chairman and CEO, Africa 2-5-9 Project Initiative; CEO – Innovative Global Consulting is an Amazon who has consistently place Nigeria positively in the eyes of the International community through her passion in ensuring every African child have access to quality education, irrespective of her background and every Nigerian women receive empowerment for great entrepreneurship.
In this Exclusive Interview, this African giant takes us through the latest acquisition of American International University (AIUN), professional courses to be offered, how the Nigerian government may benefit from the noble concept and many more issues:
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How did you conceive the noble idea of American International University in Nigeria?
As the Founder and CEO of African Women’s Health Project International (AWHPI) GLOBAL FOUNDATION, I am committed to empowering women and girls in Africa through education, healthcare, and economic development. While working on various projects in the UAE and the Gulf countries, I recognized the need for access to quality education, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
I was approached by the Founder and Chancellor of the American International University West Africa Dr. Dinesh Shukla, and we conceived the idea of partnering to bring American International University (AIUWA) to Nigeria to address this need and provide a world-class education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world, especially in the healthcare field. By partnering with American International University West Africa, we can leverage their expertise and resources to develop a cutting-edge curriculum, provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, and attract top talent from around the world. Our vision is to create a premier health science institution of higher learning in Nigeria that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship. We believe that education is a powerful tool for transforming lives, communities, and nations, and we are committed to making a positive impact in Nigeria and beyond.
Through this partnership, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change, empowering young people to become leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will drive sustainable development in Africa. By investing in education, we are investing in the future of Africa, and I am excited to embark on this journey with the American International University West Africa platform in Nigeria.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: What are the factors that inspired you into embracing education as an area in which you decide that youths in Africa’s most populous nation should place their future?
Health and education are the pillars of a country’s development and youth are the future leaders of the country. To bring AIU to Africa’s most populous nation is a step towards the aspirations of our great nation. I have always been passionate about empowering youths in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, to reach their full potential. Several factors inspired me to focus on education as a key area for youth development:
• Personal experience: I have seen firsthand the transformative power of education in my own life and wanted to provide similar opportunities for others.
• Socio-economic challenges: Nigeria faces significant socio-economic challenges, and education is a proven pathway to improving lives and breaking cycles of poverty.
• Demographic dividend: With a large youth population, Nigeria has the potential to reap a demographic dividend if young people are equipped with the right skills and knowledge.
• SDG alignment: Education is a key driver of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including poverty reduction, gender equality, and economic growth.
• Limited access: Many Nigerian youths face barriers to quality education, including financial constraints, lack of infrastructure, and outdated curricula.
• Brain drain: Nigeria has experienced a brain drain, with many talented individuals emigrating due to limited opportunities. I wanted to help create an environment where young people can thrive and contribute to nation-building.
• Innovation and entrepreneurship: Education can foster innovation, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship, which are essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
• Gender equality: Education is a powerful tool for promoting gender equality and empowering girls and women, who are often marginalized in Nigerian society.
These factors reinforced my belief that education is the most effective way to empower Nigerian youths and create a brighter future for the nation. By investing in education, we can unlock the potential of young people and catalyze sustainable development in Nigeria.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: What are some of the challenges you had to overcome in securing this academic deal?
Securing the academic deal for the American International University in Nigeria required overcoming several challenges, including:
• Navigating complex regulatory frameworks in Nigeria and the US
• Building trust and rapport with stakeholders across cultures and continents
• Addressing concerns around accreditation, quality assurance, and academic standards
• Managing logistical and operational challenges related to establishing a new university
• Balancing the needs and expectations of various partners and stakeholders
• Ensuring alignment with national and international education policies and best practices
Through persistence, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, we were able to overcome these challenges and secure the deal.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How long do you think it will take to have this prestigious American International University in Nigeria be operational?
The first step towards realization of the project has been taken. We are already in the implementation stages and do plan to begin within the next 6 months with preliminary works. Depending on finding appropriate land and finances, the University can become fully operational in 2 years in Nigeria. The American International University West Africa (AIUWA) was established in The Gambia in 2011 and has since graduated students in various fields, including nursing, pharmacists, and medicine.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Can you briefly explain the difference between your institution and that of Atiku Abubakar owned American University of Nigeria (a private varsity) to avoid confusion in the eyes of the public?
Yes, certainly! American International University West Africa (AIUA) and American University of Nigeria (AUN) are two separate institutions. AIUWA shall focus on all health sciences and paraprofessional expertise that will specialize in healthcare professional education, focusing on training medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, with specialization and laboratory sciences, and other healthcare professionals. On the other hand, AUN is a private university founded by Atiku Abubakar that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. While both institutions aim to provide quality education, AIUA has a specific focus and comprehensive approach on healthcare professionals, whereas AUN is focusing more on humanities and information technology with more approached to undergraduates and graduates’ education. This distinction will help avoid confusion in the eyes of the public.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How will American International University in Nigeria make education affordable or fill the gap for genius or highly intelligent children from poor homes whom their parents do not have the financial means to send their children to school?
American International University in Nigeria (AIUN) is committed to making education accessible and affordable for all, regardless of financial means. To achieve this, AIUN plans to implement the following initiatives. AWHPI is a nonprofit organization and shall focus on rewarding highly intelligent children from poor homes with scholarships
• Scholarships: Offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to exceptional students from low-income backgrounds.
• Flexible payment plans: Offer flexible payment plans to help families spread the cost of tuition over several instalments.
• Free tuition: Consider offering free tuition to exceptionally talented students from poor homes who cannot afford to pay.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with organizations and foundations that provide educational grants and scholarships to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
By implementing these initiatives, AIUN aims to bridge the gap for genius and highly intelligent children from poor homes, enabling them to access quality education and reach their full potential.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How will your educational institution help put an end to incessant strike embark upon by Nigerian Academic Association which often than not make most students spend extra years in the school before graduation?
AIUN shall have a well formulated and rigorous curriculum with external examinations held through National Board of Medical Examiners and other professional boards from USA and local external exams conducted to ensure professional training is at par internationally. The incessant strikes by the Nigerian Academic Association have been a major challenge for Nigerian students, leading to extended academic calendars and undue stress. To help address this issue, American International University in Nigeria (AIUN) plans to implement the following measures to include, Robust contingency planning, Alternative learning methods, Flexible academic calendars, Conflict resolution mechanisms, and Collaborative agreements.
By implementing these measures, AIUN aims to mitigate the impact of strikes on students’ academic progress and ensure timely graduation.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Can you detail how American International University in Nigeria will help rebrand the country’s image in the eyes of the foreign community?
AIUN shall offer professional courses mirroring international curriculum and international examinations which shall attract students from other countries. AIUN shall partner and associate with well-known international institutions as has been demonstrated with American International University located in Gambia. American International University in Nigeria (AIUN) is committed to helping rebrand Nigeria’s image in the eyes of the foreign community through various initiatives, including International partnerships, Global relevance: Our curriculum will be designed to meet international standards, ensuring that our graduates are competitive and prepared to succeed in a global market, Research and innovation, and International events and conferences: We will host international events and conferences, attracting global thought leaders and showcasing Nigeria as a hub for intellectual and creative expression.
By implementing these initiatives, AIUN aims to rebrand Nigeria’s image in the eyes of the foreign community, highlighting the country’s academic excellence, innovation, and cultural richness.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Are you hiring now for lecturers, administrators or when will you be hiring for your institution?
The next step is identifying the land and completing the formalities to comply with local regulation, construction of the permanent campus shall commence and soon after hiring of the faculty and staff.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Will you be hiring only Nigerians and Americans or what nationality of countries will you be hiring the lecturers and administrators from?
AIUN shall be hiring the professionals and administrators from within Nigeria through our recently launched AWHPI Educational Exchange initiative. The AWHPI’S Teacher Educational Exchange Program is a program that aims to promote educational exchange and collaboration between teachers and schools in Africa and the United States. The program will provide opportunities for teachers to participate in exchange programs, professional development workshops, and cultural immersion experiences. The goal of the program is to enhance the skills and knowledge of teachers, promote cultural understanding, and improve the quality of education for students in Africa and the United States.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: What will be the minimum wage for any lecturer and administrators your educational institution will be hiring?
Wages shall be according to the professional qualifications and as per requirements of the state
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How does this move benefit the girl-child in Nigeria?
As the founder and CEO of the African Women’s Health Project International, I can’t stress enough the importance of girl child education. It’s the key to unlocking gender equality, poverty reduction, and sustainable development in Africa. Educated girls become empowered women who can break cycles of poverty, improve their health and wellbeing, and become leaders and change-makers in their communities. By investing in girl child education, we’re not just transforming individual lives but also building stronger, more resilient communities and nations. It’s a critical step towards a brighter, more equitable future for Africa. The American International University in Nigeria (AIUN) recognizes the importance of empowering the girl-child in Nigeria. Our initiatives will benefit the girl-child in several ways:
• Access to quality education: AIUN will provide scholarships and financial aid to girls from underserved communities, ensuring they access quality education.
• Role models and mentorship: Our female faculty and staff will serve as role models and mentors, inspiring and guiding girls to pursue their dreams.
• STEM education: We will encourage girls to explore STEM fields, bridging the gender gap and creating opportunities for future careers.
• Leadership development: AIUN will offer programs and workshops focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, and life skills, equipping girls to become confident leaders.
• Safe learning environment: Our campus will provide a safe and inclusive learning environment, free from gender-based violence and discrimination.
By supporting the girl-child in Nigeria, AIUN aims to break cycles of poverty, inequality, and gender-based discrimination, empowering them to become agents of change and drivers of Nigeria’s future growth and development.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: How can Nigerian women be empowered to partake of this gesture of attending school, even at their elderly age?
The African Women’s Health Project International (AWHPI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of African women and their communities. AWHPI focuses on addressing gender-based health disparities and promoting sustainable development through education, advocacy, and community-based initiatives. Empowering Nigerian women to attend school, even at an elderly age, requires a multi-faceted approach. We created some strategies to encourage their participation, includes Awareness campaigns, Mentorship and support groups, Accessible learning environments, Community engagement, and Digital literacy: Provide basic computer and digital literacy training to enable women to access online resources and educational opportunities.
By implementing these strategies, Nigerian women can be empowered to take advantage of educational opportunities, even at an elderly age, enhancing their personal growth, skills, and contributions to their communities. Provision for adult students shall be a part of the statutes of the university.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Who is HRH Princess Moradeun Ogunlana and what lasting legacy will you like to be remembered for in the Nigerian educational sector?
I am Princess Dr. Moradeun Ogunlana, Founder and CEO of the African Women’s Health Project International AWHPI GLOBAL FOUNDATION, a US based nonprofit foundation with Special Consultative ECOSOC Status approval with the United Nations. A global humanitarian, Nigerian royalty, visionary leader, energy consultant and speaker, but most importantly, I am a Nigerian. I have dedicated my life to improving the lives of Africans through quality education and equitable access to healthcare, most especially for women and children. As a passionate advocate for healthcare and education, I would like to be remembered for the following lasting legacy in the Nigerian healthcare and educational sector:
Healthcare:
• Improving access to quality healthcare: I aim to make a significant impact by increasing access to quality healthcare, especially for underserved communities.
• Healthcare infrastructure development: I aspire to contribute to the development of modern, well-equipped healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas.
• Health education and awareness: I hope to promote health education and awareness, empowering Nigerians to make informed decisions about their health.
Education:
• Enhancing teacher capacity: I aim to establish programs that enhance the skills and knowledge of teachers, enabling them to deliver more effective instruction.
• Curriculum reform: I hope to contribute to the development of a more inclusive and relevant curriculum that prepares Nigerian students for success in a rapidly changing world.
• Promoting STEAM education: I aspire to encourage more girls and women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), driving innovation and economic growth.
Recently. I launched the Africa 2-5-9 Project initiative at ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi, UAE to provide a sustainable climate action plan for Africa. The Africa 2-5-9 Project is a visionary plan to transform the lives of millions of Africans through the provision of basic infrastructure, such as water, sanitation, electricity, roads, agriculture, health facilities, education, and workforce training and development. The project aims to achieve these goals, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 and the African Union Agenda 2063.
The Africa 2-5-9 Project initiative is not only about building physical infrastructure, but also about developing human capital and creating economic opportunities for the people of Africa. The vision of the Africa 2-5-9 Project Initiative is to transform sub-Saharan Africa into a prosperous, resilient, and self-reliant region that can meet its energy needs, mitigate climate change impacts, and foster economic growth and social development.
By striving to achieve these goals, I hope to leave a lasting legacy that transforms the Nigerian healthcare and educational sectors, improving the lives of millions of Nigerians and empowering future generations to reach their full potential.
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Do you think the administration of President Bola Ahmed TINUBU is doing enough for the nation’s education industry?
The new Nigerian government under His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has a historic opportunity and responsibility to address the infrastructure challenge and unleash the country’s potential. His Excellency President Tinubu has already announced his commitment to invest in infrastructure development, education and most recently, healthcare as some of his top priorities. He has also expressed his willingness to partner with the private sector and the international community to mobilize the necessary resources and expertise for infrastructure projects. President Tinubu has also pledged to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the planning, implementation, and management of infrastructure projects.
As an organization that is dedicated to bridging equitable access to healthcare to citizens and work to improve the health and economic well-being of citizens across Africa, we are excited to partner with the vision of President Tinubu and his administration on advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Nigeria. We believe that investing in women’s health is not only a moral imperative, but also a smart strategy for economic growth and social development. AWHPI GLOBAL FOUNDATION is focused on the development and empowerment of women and youths globally, through the creation of sustainable programs in their communities. We are grateful for your support and leadership in advancing the cause of women empowerment and development in Nigeria and across the continent.
I am extremely excited and proud of the plans that the President Tinubu GCFR administration has already implemented in place, and the more ever-growing upgrades and improvements to the Nigeria health sector. So far President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has proposed a double-digit budget for the education sector in 2024, which is a significant improvement compared to previous years. Additionally, the administration has implemented various initiatives to improve education and healthcare in the country. Recently, President Tinubu just announced that the healthcare sector and education industry now tops the priority list for the country.
I truly commend President Tinubu for his vision and leadership on this various infrastructure development. And we call on all stakeholders, including the government at all levels, the private sector, civil society, development partners, and the Nigerian people, to support and collaborate with President Tinubu in his efforts to build a modern and resilient infrastructure for Nigeria. We believe that by investing in infrastructure development, President Tinubu can make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s economic growth and social progress. And give us that renewed hope that will reestablish Nigeria as the Heart of Africa
*NAIJA STANDARD NEWSPAPER: Finally, what is your message for millions of Nigerians at home and Nigerians in the Diaspora?
My message to millions of Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora is one of hope, unity, and progress. Be proud of your country. The diaspora is actually the ambassadors of the country. Each one can contribute to development in their own way. Together we can. I encourage you to embrace our diversity, celebrate our cultural heritage, and work together towards a brighter future for our beloved country, Nigeria. Let us focus on building a Nigeria that provides access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for all, regardless of background or socio-economic status. Let us strive for a Nigeria that is driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to excellence. Together, we can achieve greatness and make Nigeria a shining example for the world.
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