KIWi Connect: “Nigeria–Germany University Matchmaking Event”

Partnering with Nigerian universities provides German institutions access to one of Africa’s most vibrant academic and innovation ecosystems. Nigeria, with over 200 million people and a rapidly growing youth population, has a diverse higher education sector that is seeing increased investment in research, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship. Particularly promising opportunities for higher education cooperation with Nigeria exist in the areas of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Media Studies, Creative Industries, Renewable Energy, Food Security, Environmental Studies, Agriculture, Medicine and Health Sciences and STEM Education. 

In this context, Nigerian and German universities share a growing record of collaboration, supported by DAAD, DFG, and other partners. Building on this foundation, they are increasingly seeking structured partnerships in areas of shared strategic interest, such as mobility, joint research and technological innovations. 

This matchmaking event, organised by the DAAD Centre for International Academic Cooperation (KIWi) - DAAD and the DAAD Regional Office Accra, aims to foster new partnerships by offering a structured platform for selected Nigerian and German higher education institutions to connect, exchange ideas, and explore common interests. The two-hour session will include short presentations from Nigerian universities, a case study on the experiences of an existing partnership, and presentations from key funding bodies. Engage directly with representatives from higher education institutions and funding bodies, allowing for the exploration of tailored collaboration opportunities and insights into application procedures. 

Questions that could be discussed during this event and will facilitate a first exchange and getting to know each other are:

• What kind of exchange and collaboration are partners looking for? 
• In which fields, could German and Nigerian universities and other institutions of higher education best collaborate to achieve common goals?
• How can partnerships between German and Nigerian universities help promote the exchange of knowledge and technologies? 

Please register by August 15st 2025.