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Rabat, Morocco witnessed a landmark event in continental cooperation as The AASU–Weldios Symposium hosted by Epik Leaders successfully brought together key stakeholders at the National Institute of Statistics and Applied Economics (INSEA). Under the theme, "Cultivating Prosperity: Advancing Agriculture and Intra-African Trade for Sustainable Development," the gathering championed a unified approach between academic institutions, private enterprise, and civil society—a model central to achieving the goals of the AfCFTA and Agenda 2063.
The Power of Trilateral Partnership
The symposium served as a powerful testament to the necessity of bridging traditional sector divides. The collaborative efforts of the All Africa Students Union (AASU), Weldios University, and Epik Leaders were repeatedly cited as the template for accelerated African development.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Nizar Chaari, Founder of Epik Leaders, underscored the synergy required for transformation:
"The Africa we strive for is one where knowledge empowers enterprise, and enterprise serves the people. Our partnership is not a temporary alliance; it is a foundational pillar for sustainable growth. By hosting this symposium, we are turning shared visions into coordinated action, driving the continent toward prosperity and unity."
Leaders Advocate for Economic Empowerment
The forum featured high-level dialogues with influential figures who provided practical perspectives on overcoming economic hurdles.
Engr Dr. Darlington Ugota, Chairman of the Esthington Group, stressed the need to de-risk agricultural investments through robust private sector participation and technological integration across borders.
Dr. Gilpin Ekundayo, MD/CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank of Sierra Leone, focused on the financial mechanisms required to fuel continental trade, advocating strongly for innovative banking solutions to support youth and small businesses.
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Education Meets the Economy: The Weldios-AASU Vision
The academic and student union representatives emphasized that educational outcomes must directly address the economic realities of Africa.
Dr. Ugo Magnus Kel, of Weldios University, articulated the institution’s commitment to relevance:
"The symposium's core message is clear: our curricula must be dynamic enough to shape job creators, not just job seekers. Weldios University, in partnership with AASU, is dedicated to ensuring that our research and graduates are the engines—not merely the passengers—of Africa’s economic development. We are translating theoretical potential into tangible impact."
Mr. Osisiogu Osikenyi Enyinnaya, President of AASU, passionately highlighted the role of students as active agents of change:
"We, the youth, are the generation that will execute the AfCFTA. Through the framework established by this symposium, we are empowered to challenge the status quo, champion innovation in agriculture, and demand a seat at the table where the continent's commercial destiny is being shaped. Unity, education, and trade—these are our mandates."
Honoring Commitment and Service
A focal point of the event was the recognition ceremony, where Mr. Osisiogu Osikenyi Enyinnaya presented the AASU Medal of Honor to several distinguished guests for their exemplary commitment to Pan-African development.
Recipients included:
Dr. Nizar Chaari (Founder, Epik Leaders)
Engr Dr. Darlington Ugota (Chairman, Esthington Group)
Dr. Gilpin Ekundayo (MD/CEO, Rokel Commercial Bank of Sierra Leone)
Dr. Ugo Magnus Kel (Weldios University)
This honor served as a powerful symbolic endorsement of the individuals driving cross-sectoral collaboration and sustainable growth.
Moving Forward
The AASU–Weldios Symposium hosted by Epik Leaders in Rabat was a definitive call to action. By cementing a strategic alliance between academic excellence, student leadership, and industry innovation, the symposium has established a viable framework for Cultivating Prosperity and accelerating intra-African trade, setting a precedent for future continental partnerships.