Leading educational institute Noida International University (NIU) recently celebrated Africa Day by paying tribute to the rich African history, heritage and culture. The event also remembered the contributions made by the various leaders of the continent and also commemorated the establishment of the African Union (AU).

Ms. Alkananda Misra, Dy.Director Admissions & International Relations, NIU, welcomed along with students and other staff members of the University the Guest of Honour Mr. Coulibaly D Herve, (Head of Consular, Embassy of Burkina Faso), Mr. GNIN Sié (First Secretary, Consul of the Embassy, Embassy of the Republic of Cote D’ivoire), Mr. Eric A. Missah (Head of Consular, Ghana High Commission), Madam Jean Assantewaah Oduro (First Secretary/Consular & Welfare officer, Ghana High Commission), Mr. Christopher E Okeke (Minister, Nigeria High Commission) and invited them for the High-Tea and interaction with Honourable Vice Chancellor Dr. Uma Bhardwaj  with the Directors of all 12 Schools.

 The event started with the lightening of lamp followed by the speech of Vice Chancellor, Dr. Uma Bhardwaj and Hon’ble Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Parsanjeet Kumar. Dr Bhardwaj highlighted the beauty of Africa and also shared her wonderful experiences at the Africa day event at the Taj Hotel, New Delhi.The Keynote address was delivered by Mr. Coulibaly D Herve (Head of Consular, Embassy of Burkina Faso) and Mr.  Christopher E Okeke (Minister of Nigeria High Commission).

 “I extend my warm wishes of Africa Day to everyone present here. I am glad that the NIU is celebrating the day with much pomp and show. This kind of event strengthens the bond between two countries. I really appreciated the clean and green environment of the NIU campus, which is currently the home for many African students. I urged them to focus on their studies in order to change the face of Africa,” said Mr Herve.

 Echoing the same sentiments, Mr. Okeke (Minister of Nigeria High Commission) said, “There is a need for quality education across the world and nations should collaborate more frequently to reduce inequality and reach the targets set out globally. I want to see progress and improvement in my students when you all return to your own country.”

 This annual event aims at portraying the rich African culture, and to also help the African students cherish their unique traditional identity and understand the significance of the AU day. Dr. Ruchika Sinha, Member Cultural Committee, NIU delivered the vote of thanks.

 The event came to an end  by singing the National Anthem.