Zyra University of Medical Sciences Signs Partnership with University of Paris for Student Exchange
By President Dr. Kofi Mensah
Zyra University of Medical Sciences has entered into a historic partnership with the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Paris, one of Europe's most prestigious medical institutions. The agreement, signed during a ceremony attended by officials from both universities, marks a significant milestone in Zyra's international collaboration efforts.
The partnership will enable a range of collaborative activities, including:
Student Exchange Programs: Selected students from both institutions will have the opportunity to spend a semester studying at the partner university, gaining exposure to different healthcare systems and educational approaches. Up to 20 students per year will participate in the exchange, with full academic credit transfer guaranteed.
Faculty Exchange: Professors and researchers will participate in teaching exchanges, guest lectures, and collaborative research projects, fostering knowledge sharing and innovation. Faculty members will spend between two weeks and three months at the partner institution, teaching courses and conducting joint research.
Joint Research Initiatives: The universities will collaborate on research projects addressing global health challenges, with a particular focus on tropical diseases, public health, and healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings. Initial projects will focus on infectious disease epidemiology and health systems strengthening.
Shared Resources: Students and faculty will gain access to digital libraries, online courses, and research databases from both institutions. This includes access to over 100,000 medical journals and textbooks, as well as specialized research tools and software.
"This partnership represents a tremendous opportunity for our students and faculty," said President Dr. Kofi Mensah. "It will expose our community to international perspectives while allowing us to share our unique expertise in African healthcare challenges with our European colleagues."
Professor Jean-Claude Dubois, Dean of the University of Paris Faculty of Medicine, added: "We are excited to partner with Zyra University, an institution that shares our commitment to excellence and innovation in medical education. This collaboration will enrich both our communities and contribute to advancing global health."
The partnership also includes provisions for joint degree programs, collaborative conferences, and shared continuing education opportunities for healthcare professionals. Both universities have committed significant resources to ensure the success of the partnership, including dedicated coordination staff and scholarship funds for exchange students.
The first cohort of exchange students is expected to begin their programs in September 2025, with applications opening in January. Information sessions for interested students will be held throughout the fall semester.