The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Nsukka, are set to establish a formal strategic partnership covering curriculum development, professional mentorship, and the integration of emerging fields such as digital finance, sustainability reporting, and forensic accounting.

The groundwork for the collaboration was laid during a visit by ICAN President Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, who led a delegation comprising Council members, the Registrar, and other Institute officials to the university. The visit coincided with activities marking the 20th Eastern Zonal Accountants' Conference held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Receiving the delegation, Vice Chancellor Professor Charles Ogbulogo described the visit as timely, presenting Maduka University as an institution built around four cardinal pillars: academic excellence, estate development, a teaching hospital, and industrial entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the theme "Entrenching Industrial Training at Maduka University," Ogbulogo emphasised the institution's commitment to practical learning across diverse sectors including publishing, medicine, petroleum, and mechanical industries.

He acknowledged ICAN's contributions to governance, accountability, and national development, pledging the university's support in encouraging staff and students to actively participate in Institute programmes.

"Maduka University is on a journey of discovery with a clear focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and national development," Ogbulogo stated, adding that the institution was fully prepared for meaningful collaboration with ICAN.

He also reaffirmed the vision of the university's Founder and Chancellor, Dr Samuel Maduka Onyishi, to drive positive societal impact through education, agriculture, healthcare, and technology.

In his response, Yahaya commended the university's rapid growth, noting that its achievements in infrastructure, learning environment, and institutional integrity within less than three years reflected purposeful leadership.

"Maduka University stands as a compelling reminder that impact is not a function of age, but of purpose," he noted, adding that "wealth finds its true meaning when invested in people."

Yahaya outlined further areas of potential collaboration, including structured mentorship, industry exposure for students, and support for the development and accreditation of the university's Accountancy programme.