Ho Technical University (HTU) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing global partnerships and cultural exchange during the second edition of its International Students’ Day celebration held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
The event, held under the theme “Mapping Out Opportunities to Bridge the Internationalization Gap in Higher Education Institutions in Africa: HTU in Perspective,” spotlighted the University’s growing international student body and ambitious efforts to globalize academic experiences.
Hosted in the G. M. Afeti Auditorium, the occasion drew a wide array of stakeholders, including University leadership, faculty, development partners, and invited guests from EducationUSA, the European Union, and GIZ.
It also celebrated the increasing diversity on campus, as HTU’s international student population rose from 8 to 20 over the past year, with current students from Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Chad.
In her address, the Dean of the International Programmes and Institutional Linkages (IPIL), Prof. Eli Atasi, said the university had made significant progress in its internationalisation drive. She disclosed that outreach had been made to over 20 universities in the United States, with new partnerships being explored in Germany, Canada, India, and Togo.
She added that the number of international students at HTU had increased from eight to 20 within a year, with students currently drawn from Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Chad.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of five HTU students who had recently returned from academic exchange programmes in the USA and Germany. They shared their experiences with peers, highlighting the benefits of international exposure.
Representatives from EducationUSA and GIZ encouraged students to take advantage of global opportunities and embrace cultural exchange as a means of broadening their academic and professional outlook.
The Vice-Chancellor of HTU, Prof. Ben Q. Honyenuga, commended the international students for choosing HTU and assured them of the university’s support. “We have instituted International Students’ Day to appreciate and learn about the cultural diversity of our international students and collaborators. Internationalisation remains a key strategic objective of the University Management,” he said.
He further urged the students to be law-abiding, make new friends, and immerse themselves in new cultures. “Your presence here enriches our academic environment and strengthens our global outlook. When HTU’s story is told, your contributions will be part of the scenes that make it rich and complete,” he added.
The celebration featured cultural performances by international students, the HTU Basic School Cultural Troupe, and the university’s Culture Group, which added colour and vibrancy to the occasion.
Information stands mounted by partner organisations provided students and staff with details on scholarships, exchange programmes, and other international opportunities.
The event underscored HTU’s growing role as a hub for international education and its resolve to bridge the global academic divide through strategic partnerships and inclusive learning experiences.