IUGB showcases African culture

Steven John Ndikum
Staff Writer

Moving away from your home to a foreign country comes with challenges, and sometimes these challenges can be a way forward to grow and experience new things. With the numerous associations we find at Minnesota State University, Mankato, everyone can feel safe and at home. 

Recognized Student Organizations vary based on culture, race, religion, and purpose.  The International University of Grand-Bassam Alumni Association’s network is one of them which has illuminated diversity.

This organization was created in 2014 by Ivorian students. The group is made of former International University of Grand-Bassam students that are mostly from Ivory Coast, but the association doesn’t limit participation from other countries.

There are students from other African countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, Cameroon and Congo which are part of the organization. This student organization is under the leadership of Alan N’zue who is presently a student at MSU-Mankato.

The main goal of the association is to create a sense of awareness and connection between former IUGB students being in Mankato with new students coming to Mankato. Fostering connection between MNSU and the International University of Grand-Bassam.

Moreover, this connection is to create a sense of diversity and team spirit among the African students who have lived and studied at MSU-Mankato.

Meetings are held every Thursday at CSU 201. Doors are always opened to any student, non-students, and staff who want to know more about this organization.

The vision of this association is to make former IUGB students to network with local businesses to get a job after college. The Ivorian community is the fourth biggest community at MNSU. Their first big event was termed “Ivorian Night.”

Feature photo by Maria Ly | MSU Reporter.