Covenant University recently played host to a high-profile delegation from Electric Vehicle (EV) Planet Global Limited in a strategic meeting that could shape the future of electric vehicle technology in Nigeria. The meeting, which took place at the Vice Chancellor's conference room, aimed at forging a partnership between the prestigious University and the forward-thinking EV company.

Leading the visiting team, Dr. Bunmi Felix Oyebamidele, the Managing Director of EV Planet Global Limited, outlined the purpose of their visit. He emphasized that Covenant University, widely recognized as a top-ranking institution, was an ideal partner for their vision. The company seeks to establish a collaboration that will involve training Covenant University’s Mechanical Engineering faculty by sending them to China for specialized training in electric vehicle technology.

In addition to faculty training, the partnership aims to integrate EV technology courses into the University’s curriculum, ensuring that students graduate with hands-on experience in electric vehicles production. Furthermore, the company envisions setting up an EV research and training center on campus through a joint venture, which will provide students with an immersive learning environment.

Dr. Oyebamidele further elaborated on their comprehensive training program, which is designed to equip aspiring EV technicians with industry-relevant skills, certifications, and expertise; developed in partnership with renowned EV institutes in Germany and China. The program seamlessly combines theoretical online learning with intensive hands-on training, and students will gain mastery in EV battery systems, electric motors, charging infrastructure, diagnostics, and safety protocols, ensuring they are industry-ready.

He emphasized that students will engage in interactive lectures, multimedia presentations, and group discussions, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of EV technology. The practical training component will provide hands-on experience with diagnosing electrical faults, performing maintenance, and troubleshooting EV systems using state-of-the-art tools and equipment.

A significant aspect of the partnership is the dual certification offered by BZB International Education Technology LTD and EV Planet LTD, which will grant students globally recognized credentials that enhance their career prospects in the fast-growing EV sector.

Dr. Oyebamidele highlighted several reasons why Covenant University should choose EV Planet Global Limited as a partner. He assured that the collaboration would provide high-quality education by allowing students to learn from experienced instructors and industry leaders. The initiative would also facilitate career advancement by equipping students with specialized skills and certifications that will give them a competitive edge in the job market.

In addition, he noted that the partnership will contribute to the transition towards a greener transportation ecosystem and will provide exposure to international standards through training aligned with leading EV institutes in Germany and China. He further mentioned that students and faculty would have access to continuous education opportunities to stay updated with advancements in EV technology.

He explained that the company has already conducted training programs for Nigeria’s National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and currently operates a training facility in Lekki, Lagos. As part of the package, learners will receive toolboxes and comprehensive training handbooks to support their studies.

Responding to the proposal, Covenant University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy Anake, expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the initiative. He noted that electric and autonomous vehicles represent the future, especially given the current challenges associated with fossil fuels. He acknowledged that this partnership would greatly benefit students, faculty, and the wider academic community, and assured the visiting team that further discussions would be scheduled to explore the possibilities in greater detail.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu, also commended the proposal, emphasizing the importance of maintenance training in the successful adoption of new technology. He noted that this partnership presents an exciting future for Covenant University and expressed anticipation for how it will unfold.

The Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Igban, praised the proposal and emphasized the potential for collaboration, capacity building, and infrastructure development on campus. He expressed excitement about the initiative’s focus on training students and ensuring the development of a skilled workforce capable of maintaining and repairing EVs. He also appreciated the company's willingness to establish its infrastructure on the university campus.

Also at the meeting were the Director, Financial Services, Pastor Samuel Audu; the Dean of Student Affairs, Mrs. Shola Coker and other members of the University Management.