A Bridge of Innovation Between IUGB and Nelson Mandela University
Written by: Lyne Andrea Konan
09/11/2025
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From Bassam to Gqeberha !
The strategic landscape of African academia has decisively shifted. The International University of Grand-Bassam (IUGB) and Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in South Africa are officially linking up to create a powerful engine for environmental action across the continent. Driven by the vision of our Provost, Dr. DeBrenna Agbenyiga and the coordination of SGA Academic Advisor Ms. Lorie Mattox, this strategic partnership with NMU’s Hubs of Convergence (HoC) aims to put students at the forefront of climate innovation.
Why Coastal Sustainability?
The focus on Environmental and Coastal Sustainability was deliberate and strategic. It reflects the shared coastal realities of both institutions: IUGB’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and NMU’s location in Gqeberha, a major South African port city along the Indian Ocean known for its marine and environmental challenges.
One of the key figures in this partnership is an admirable young man from IUGB. Axel Toualy, a Sophomore Political Science student engaged in climate and environmental matters, confirmed the significance of this collaboration: "This focus is both symbolic and practical, highlighting how African universities can lead climate and environmental action locally."
The main objective is clear: to move learning beyond the classroom, enabling students to co-design and implement community projects in recycling, circular economy, and coastal health.
Student Leadership Is the Core Asset
The initiative is student-driven, a vision championed by Axel Toualy: “My role has been to ensure that young people are not just participants but leaders in this collaboration.”
Its flagship project (the Coastal Environmental Sustainability and Circular Economy Project) will feature beach cleanups, educational campaigns, and recycling drives, benefiting local communities while giving students hands-on experience in research, cross-cultural exchange, and leadership.
Toualy emphasizes the long-term impact: “This collaboration proves that African youth can lead meaningful change when given the right platform.”
The partnership is finalizing its concept note and preparing its first joint activity: a student exchange and knowledge-sharing program set for 2025.
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