By Abasi Ita
The University of Calabar and HBM Nigeria Plc have initiated discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at promoting academic development, corporate growth, and community engagement.
The proposed collaboration is expected to cover areas including research, capacity building, innovation, branding, and other initiatives designed to strengthen ties between academia and industry.
The move was highlighted during a visit by the Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Calabar, Prof. Esekong Andrew Essien, to the Communication and Public Affairs Manager of HBM’s Calabar Plant, Mr. Inyang Inyang.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Andrew Essien described the visit as an opportunity to explore areas of mutual interest and establish a framework for sustainable cooperation between the university and the company.
He congratulated HBM on its successful acquisition of Lafarge Cement Plc, noting that the investment reflected confidence in the state’s economic potential.
”We are here to identify opportunities for collaboration that will deliver mutual benefits. The Faculty of Communication and Media Studies possesses the expertise to support HBM in areas such as corporate branding, community relations, strategic communication, and marketing,” he said.
The dean noted that the University of Calabar’s extensive local and international network presents significant opportunities for corporate organizations seeking greater visibility and stakeholder engagement.
According to him, partnering with the institution would enable HBM to leverage the university’s broad reach while contributing to the advancement of education and human capital development.
Prof. Andrew Essien further disclosed that the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies recently emerged from the former Department of Mass Communication and now comprises seven departments, including Journalism and Media Studies, Broadcasting, Public Relations, Development Communication, Strategic Communication, Advertising, and Mass Communication.
He explained that the faculty is currently strengthening its academic and physical infrastructure ahead of accreditation exercises by the National Universities Commission and is therefore seeking support from corporate organizations and public spirited individuals.
”Our faculty is relatively new and requires strategic support to achieve its objectives. We are prepared to deploy our expertise and experience in ways that will also advance HBM’s corporate interests within the communication sector,” he added.
Responding, Mr. Inyang welcomed the delegation and described the visit as timely and thoughtful.
He commended the university for its proactive approach to partnership building and assured the delegation that HBM would carefully evaluate the proposals presented.
The discussions focused on identifying areas where the strengths and resources of both institutions could be combined to achieve shared objectives and create long term value for stakeholders.
Members of the delegation included the Head of the Department of Public Relations, Prof. Ene Okon; the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Dr. Lawrence Ekwok; and Dr. Judex Okoro of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies.
The visit underscored the university’s commitment to fostering productive partnerships with the private sector to support academic excellence, research, innovation, and community development.