‘Exchange of ideas’: African professors, students visit SCSU

The students are graduate scholars from the U.S. International University-Africa in Kenya and the University of Lagos in Nigeria.

“Your visit signifies the power of global collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Your presence enriches our community and we’re excited for your presence here at S.C. State University,” S.C. State Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Frederick Evans said at Monday’s welcoming ceremony.

“As you step onto our campus, know that you bring with you a wealth of knowledge and perspective that enriches our academic community,” he said.

While at S.C. State, students will participate in various experiential learning activities to promote “further exposure,” USIU-A Chandaria School of Business Dean Timothy Okech said.

The program could lead to the universities working together on research and publications. Okech said.

“We believe in transformative learning for all,” he said. “It’s a win-win situation.” 

Students from S.C. State have visited USIU-A twice as part of this exchange, once in December 2023 and as recently as May.

The December trip was the university’s first cultural immersion trip across the globe, Office of International and National Student Exchange Programs Director Learie Luke said.

“The interactions with citizens in the country of Kenya are the ones that helped our students the most,” Luke said of the students’ experience.

“It is great for students to visit Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana. It is also beneficial to have students from these countries come to us.”

Martin Roache, chair of the CBIS Advisory Board, challenged the visitors to use their time in Orangeburg to network.

“People are our greatest resource,” he said.

“Build relationships with people, talk to people, connect with people, and after you leave, stay in touch with the people you meet.”

Visitors from the exchange program were also greeted by Mayor Michael Butler and Orangeburg County Councilwoman Delores Frazier.

“Feel at home away from home,” Frazier said on behalf of the county.

The university will be hosting the group from June 9-19.