The development is expected to expand the Nigerian university's international academic engagement while creating opportunities for collaboration in medical education, healthcare research and the application of emerging technologies.
The university announced its admission in a statement following a high-level programme on Leadership and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education held at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
Established in 2013 with 16 institutions across 14 countries, the Oxonia University Network has expanded significantly, bringing together more than 153 universities in 41 countries.
The alliance provides a platform for member institutions to promote international academic cooperation, entrepreneurship and the practical application of research to address societal challenges.
According to the statement, PAMO University's admission would strengthen the network's presence in Africa and Asia, while allowing the institution to contribute its expertise in medical education, healthcare research and health sciences training.
The programme also witnessed a leadership transition within the network, with the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, assuming office as its president, succeeding Professor Abubakar Rasheed.
In his inaugural address, Ribadu outlined his vision for the organisation's next decade, identifying the integration of artificial intelligence into university teaching, administrative processes and medical research as key priorities.
He also highlighted the importance of admitting specialised institutions such as PAMO University, noting that international partnerships would be essential in addressing emerging challenges in higher education and healthcare.
"As global higher education navigates technological advancements and emerging healthcare challenges, strengthening our network's research capabilities and responsible AI adoption remains paramount," he said.
Participants at the programme also examined how digital platforms could improve collaboration among member universities, particularly in joint research initiatives, academic staff exchanges and the development of policies guiding the responsible application of artificial intelligence.
The discussions underscored the growing importance of technology in transforming higher education, with universities increasingly exploring ways to integrate AI into academic delivery, institutional management and scientific research.
The Oxonia University Network currently comprises institutions from 41 countries, including Nigeria, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Russia and the United Arab Emirates.
PAMO University's admission into the alliance marks a significant step towards expanding its international academic relationships and creating further opportunities for research partnerships and knowledge exchange in the medical and health sciences.
