MARYAM Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of the President and Founder Trustee of the International Academic and Management Association (IAMA), Prof. (Dr.) Bikash Sharma.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Sunday, the President of the MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, described the news of Prof. Sharma’s passing as shocking and deeply saddening.
Prof. Gwarzo said the late Prof. Sharma was a globally recognised education management professional and philanthropist whose contributions significantly shaped international academic development.
“I am deeply saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Prof. Bikash Sharma. He was a valued colleague and dear friend,” Prof. Gwarzo said.
He recalled that their first meeting took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during a conference organised by the International Association of Universities.
According to him, Prof. Sharma continued to support his vision by promoting strategies aimed at strengthening academic standards for internationalisation and global collaboration.
Prof Gwarzo noted that under the deceased leadership, IAMA expanded its presence to more than 43 countries, providing services to nearly 200 educational institutions and benefiting thousands of students worldwide.
He also recalled that IAMA honoured him with the prestigious *Edupreneur of the Year Award* in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the education sector.
He said the late scholar’s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 for promoting peace and harmony through education reflected his dedication, resilience and commitment to making the world a better place.
Prof. Gwarzo extended his heartfelt condolences to Prof. Sharma’s family, friends and associates.
“On behalf of the MAAUN Group of Universities, I commiserate with the Government and people of India, as well as IAMA and the global academic community over this great loss,” he said.
Until his death, Prof. Sharma was the Founding President of IAMA International Open University of Florida in the United States and the IAMA School of Vocational and Technical Education (iSVTE).
He also served as Managing Director of IAMA International Tradelinks Private Limited, President of the World Academic Education Industry (WAEI), and Chief Executive Officer of iDeliver Services, an IT and HR solutions company based in India.