The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) is poised to deepen its global footprint by entering into a strategic educational partnership with Zhenjiang College, China.
The two institutions will formalise their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at 12 noon inside Hogis Royale, State Housing Estate, Calabar.
Key Details at a Glance
- Date: 5 November 2025
- Time: 12:00 Noon
- Venue: Hogis Royale, State Housing Estate, Calabar
- Institutions: UNICROSS (Nigeria) and Zhenjiang College (China)
- Focus of Collaboration: Educational exchange, Chinese language training, e-commerce skills
Why This Partnership Matters
UNICROSS — formerly the Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) — was renamed in 2021 to expand its mandate to a full-fledged university. A tie-up with Zhenjiang College positions it to broaden international collaborations, strengthening its standing both locally and abroad.
The agreement emphasises Chinese-language programmes and e-commerce training. These are highly relevant in today’s global economy, especially in Africa where China-Africa educational and business connections continue to grow. The move aligns well with UNICROSS’s ambition to equip students with practical, globally-relevant skills.
This milestone builds on groundwork laid earlier in July 2025, when representatives of Skyrun International visited UNICROSS and the University of Education and Entrepreneurship (UEE), Akamkpa, to propose short-term training programmes. That visit — facilitated by the Cross River State Ministry of Education — indicated strong interest in Asia-Africa skills transfer.
Under the guidance of Prof Francisca Bassey (Acting Vice-Chancellor) and backed by Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, the university is signalling its intent to be globally connected. This aligns with recent governance moves aimed at driving institutional transformation.
What to Expect at the Ceremony
- A formal signing of the MOU marking the partnership.
- A welcome ceremony and campus tour for the Zhenjiang College delegation at UNICROSS.
- Speeches by notable figures, including the Governor of Cross River State, the Vice-Chancellor of UNICROSS, and representatives from Zhenjiang College.
- Media coverage by the UNICROSS Media Team, highlighting the step as a key milestone in internationalisation.
How Students & Stakeholders Benefit
- Students will gain access to language training in Chinese — a key facilitator for study abroad, internships, and partnerships in Asia.
- Staff may have opportunities to engage in exchange programmes, joint research, and curriculum development with a Chinese partner.
- University reputation rises as UNICROSS broadens its global network and practical skill offerings.
- Employability is boosted when graduates have both language proficiency and e-commerce/business training relevant in Africa and beyond.
Sporting a global vision, UNICROSS is set to take a meaningful step forward. By partnering with Zhenjiang College, the university opens a door to international skills, language training, and academic collaboration.
The 5 November signing ceremony is more than a formal event — it signals the start of a journey that could elevate student outcomes, strengthen institutional capacity, and spotlight Cross River State as a hub for international education exchange.