A strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening accounting education and professional development is underway as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Calabar District Society, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey.
The visit, which took place on Wednesday, March 26, 2026, focused on exploring opportunities for institutional collaboration, particularly in advancing accounting education and enhancing students’ transition into the professional sphere.
The ICAN delegation was led by Elder Gershom Davis, who represented the District Chairman, Dr. Glory Effiom. He underscored ICAN’s commitment to promoting excellence in accounting practice and unveiled plans to deepen engagement with the University.
Among the key proposals presented was the establishment of an ICAN training centre in Calabar, as well as collaboration to secure accreditation for the University’s Accountancy programme. According to Davis, such accreditation would significantly improve graduates’ career prospects and ease their progression to chartered status.
He also advocated for increased institutional support for both staff and students to participate in ICAN’s Mandatory Continuing Development Programme, describing it as vital for capacity building and maintaining professional competence.
Responding, Prof. Bassey expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to academic excellence and continuous learning.
She encouraged academic departments to take advantage of funding opportunities such as Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), noting their importance in strengthening institutional capacity.
The Vice Chancellor, however, expressed concern over the absence of ICAN accreditation for the Accountancy programme, attributing the delay to past communication gaps. She assured the delegation of the University’s readiness to address the issue and deepen collaboration, while urging the Department of Accountancy to take proactive steps and uphold academic diligence.
The visit culminated in the presentation of commemorative items and a letter of commendation to the Vice Chancellor in recognition of her leadership.
Principal officers of the University who attended the meeting included Prof. Stella Maris-Okey, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic); Prof. Thomas Ojikpong, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration); Dr. Catherine Osai, Registrar; Dr. Victoria Iyishu, Librarian; Mr. Wilson Aniyom, Bursar; Prof. Hannah Etta, Director of Academic Planning; and Mr. Onen Ebri Onen, Public Relations Officer.
Kingsley Agim
