PTDF, Scottish universities strengthen ties to advance knowledge transfer

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), has signed agreements with Scottish universities to facilitate knowledge transfer at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna.

Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of the PTDF, with Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, and University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.

In a statement by Nneamaka Okafor, his Special Adviser, Media and Communications, Lokpobiri said the collaboration underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to bridging the gap between global best practices and local capacity.

The agreement outlines a framework for academic exchange and technology transfer to further strengthen the academic and professional programmes at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Kaduna State.

Lokpobiri, who underscored the significance of the partnership, said the initiative would ensure domestic training of more scholars with the same global standards previously achieved abroad.

“By bringing these knowledge transfer programmes home, we are laying the foundation for a self- sustaining oil and gas sector driven by highly skilled Nigerians,” the Minister said.

Also, the Executive Secretary of PTDF, Ahmed Aminu, signed a partnership agreement with the two Scottish institutions to formalise their roles in the collaboration.

Highlighting the importance of the partnerships, Aminu said that Robert Gordon University and the University of Strathclyde had been dependable partners over the years, hosting its foreign sponsored scholars.

“With these agreements, we are strategically bringing those experiences and expertise home, not only to develop in-country capacity, but also increase opportunities for more Nigerians to benefit from PTDF scholarship scheme,” he said.

Prof. Steve Olivier, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Robert Gordon University, expressed optimism over the partnership, adding that, “we are proud to continue our longstanding relationship with PTDF, now extending our expertise directly to Nigeria.

“This partnership will ensure that the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies becomes a hub for innovation and excellence”.

Similarly, Prof. Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde, described the collaboration as a testament to the power of global partnerships in transforming education and industry.

“Together, we are building a brighter future for Nigeria’s energy sector,” he said.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in PTDF’s reform agenda, focusing on developing homegrown resources and fostering sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.

With the agreements signed, the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, is poised to become a center of excellence, equipped to deliver world-class education and research to support Nigeria’s energy ambitions.

With a mandate to build capacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the PTDF has consistently ensured the training of manpower equipped with world-class knowledge in various disciplines.