PROF. DR. DMITRY BONDAREV OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAMBURG VISITS THE CENTRE FOR RESEARCH AND DOCUMENTATION IN TRANS-SAHARAN STUDIES

PROF. DR. DMITRY BONDAREV OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAMBURG VISITS THE CENTRE FOR RESEARCH AND DOCUMENTATION IN TRANS-SAHARAN STUDIES

After a fourteen-year hiatus since 2011, Prof. Dr. Dmitry Bondarev of the Centre for the Study of Manuscript Cultures, University of Hamburg, Germany, has visited the Centre for Research and Documentation in Trans-Saharan Studies. The purpose of his visit was to explore ways of revitalising the long-standing relationship and renewing the collaboration between his Centre and the University, which had previously resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that expired five years ago (2015–2020).

At the Centre, he was received by the Director, Prof. Muhammad Mai Abubakar, along with members of staff. They held productive discussions on renewing the partnership and identifying new areas of mutual research interest, particularly in Manuscript Preservation and Conservation, as well as the Study of Ajami Manuscripts—key components of the Centre’s mandate.

Prof. Bondarev was also taken on a guided tour of the Centre’s facilities, including the Manuscript Conservation Laboratory, Reference Library, Lecture Hall, and other units.

During a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele warmly welcomed the scholar and expressed his delight at the renewed engagement. He reaffirmed the University’s full support for re-establishing the collaboration with the University of Hamburg, noting that his administration remains committed to any research partnership that advances knowledge, innovation, and development.

The Vice-Chancellor subsequently directed the Director to fast-track the process of signing a new MoU between the two institutions. He also expressed his appreciation to the visiting scholar for reconnecting with the University after such a long break, particularly at this crucial time.