On Wednesday, 23rd July, the Association of Nigerian Scholars at Chulalongkorn University (ANSCU) convened its 3rd Congress at the Chula Chakrabongse Building, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
The event brought together not only Nigerian scholars within the university community but also distinguished guests and stakeholders from the wider Nigerian diaspora in Thailand. Among those in attendance were the Consular and Immigration Attaché Officers of the Nigerian Embassy, Bangkok; the President of the Nigerian Community Association in Thailand (NCAT); and senior representatives of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO), Thailand Chapter, including the President, Secretary-General, Financial Secretary, and a member of the executive team. Adding to the prestige of the gathering was the presence of officials from the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, whose participation underscored the significance of the occasion and the value placed on Nigerian scholars at Chulalongkorn University.
The Congress commenced with a celebratory session honoring the achievements of the 2024 graduating class. Graduands were presented with certificates of membership and recognition, symbolizing both their academic accomplishments and their contributions to the community. A notable highlight of the event was the recognition of Ms. Atamfon Wilson Udofia, the only Nigerian undergraduate currently enrolled at Chulalongkorn University. Ms. Udofia was commended for her outstanding academic performance within her faculty as well as her creative achievements, including winning the award for Best Short Movie. Her success was celebrated as an inspiring example of the talent, resilience, and versatility of Nigerian students abroad.
Another major highlight was the unveiling of ANSCU’s newly developed official website, a milestone project designed to enhance visibility, strengthen community engagement, and provide a central platform for communication among Nigerian scholars.
Following these highlights, the invited dignitaries delivered goodwill messages and guidance to members. Representatives of NIDO Thailand encouraged scholars to uphold Nigeria’s image positively by striving for excellence and integrity in all endeavors. NCAT emphasized the importance of unity and accountability within the Nigerian community in Thailand. The Nigerian Embassy commended ANSCU for its initiatives, reiterated the Embassy’s commitment to supporting Nigerian students, and shared important updates on passport processing and immigration procedures. Their reassurances were particularly valuable in addressing issues directly affecting the student community. The contribution of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs delegation further reinforced the recognition of ANSCU’s role and the broader diplomatic and cultural ties it represents.
Overall, the 3rd ANSCU Congress was both celebratory and transformative, combining recognition of scholarly achievements with meaningful dialogue and guidance from community leaders and government representatives. The participation of esteemed guests elevated the occasion, leaving members with a renewed sense of pride, motivation, and responsibility as ambassadors of Nigeria in the global academic community.