L-R: Commandant of EFCC Academy, Dr. Joseph Ogwiji (3rd-L),NOUN-OOCAS director, Prof. Wilfred Ugwuanyi (4th-L) in group photograph with NOUN and EFCC academy staff

The��Director, Olusegun Obasanjo Centre of African��Studies,��ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN-OOCAS), Prof.��Wilfred Ugwuanyi,��has sought for a collaboration with the��academy arm of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission��(EFCC)��on��anti-corruption workshops.

The wide-ranging sensitisation workshops OOCAS sought��target��traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community-based organisations.

The director��dropped this request��when he led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the EFCC Academy in Karu,��Abuja, recently.

OOCAS, during the visit, also tabled the need to hold such workshops for INEC and States Independent Electoral Commission in the 36 States on����“Electoral and Anti-Corruption Campaign in Nigeria.

L-R: Prof. Wilfred Ugwuanyi, Dr. Joseph Ogwiji during the visit

Other areas are: Collaborative Research on��Corruption and��Violence in North-east Nigeria, a��Book��Project on Anti-Corruption��Studies in Nigeria, Development of��Sensitisation��Materials on��Corruption and Anti-Corruption to be disseminated��to secondary schools and tertiary institutions,��among others.

“We seek collaboration with the anti-corruption��academy; we are devising ways to work together for the progress of our great country and also benefit for Africa,”��Ugwuanyi said.

Responding, the commandant of EFCC Academy,��Dr. Joseph Ogwiji,��welcomed��the delegation ideas and promised��that his agency��was very interested in collaborating with OOCAS.

The OOCAS delegation��comprised of��Prof. Kenneth Azingba, Dr. Chidozie Atuonwa and Dr. Kayode Odedino.

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Representative of the NOUN VC offering his speech at the event

The Vice-Chancellor of��the��ˮ���� of Nigeria��(NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, has��expressed dismay over the continuing��knowledge gap among some academics on the relevance of libraries in��the��21st��Century��universities.

Peters��stated this on Tuesday, May��27,��2025��the 112th��Biennial��Meeting of the Association of University Librarians of Nigerian Universities ( AULNU ),��held at��the NOUN Conference��Centre, Jabi,��Abuja.

The meeting had its��theme:��Revolutionising University Libraries through Adoption of Emerging Technologies for Enhanced user Experience.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Technology, Innovation, and Research, Prof. Godwin Akper, the VC said over the years his administration has given considerable��attention to reposition NOUN library.

“At the centre of my strategic goals as Vice-Chancellor is the advancement of research capacities of academics of NOUN. To this end, deliberate budgetary provisions are made to support the University Librarian to improve upon learning resources available at the library,”��he said.

In her welcome address Dr. Angela Okpala, Chairman, Association of University Librarians of Nigerian Universities (AULNU),��said if the��association is truly serious about revolutionising libraries through technology,��“then we must stop over looking one of the most strategic assets in our institutions which is the systems librarians.

“This cadre already exists within our libraries, but existence alone is not enough. We must strengthen it and sustain it. These professionals are not just support staff, they are the critical link between our rich content and the digital platforms that deliver it.”

Okpala, who is the NOUN Librarian,��stated that librarians must begin to re- evaluate and, where necessary, reposition these schools not as peripheral departments, but as central players in the information age.

She recommended that library schools be situated within faculties such as computing or information science, saying that this integration is not merely symbolic,��but��strategic��one.

“It fosters an ecosystem where librarians are not only curators of content but also creators and deployers of digital solutions that ensure global visibility of African scholarship,” she added.

In her address, the Chief Executive Officer, National Library of Nigeria, Prof.��Chinwe Anunobi, stressed on the need for collaboration in library sector emphasising on the importance of leveraging technology to enhance library services, promote information accessibility and bridge the knowledge gap in digital age.

In his goodwill message, the Registrar/CEO, Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria, Alhaji Ja’afaru Abdullahi Wase,��said the event��was a demonstration of the��association’s consistency and diligence in ensuring sustainability of professionalism in the practice of librarianship in Nigeria��universities.

He said the need for a world-class academic library that will enhance innovation and productivity which supports��teaching, learning and research is germane.

Wase��therefore stated that��the roles of University Librarians cannot be over emphasised.

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Prof. Kwanashie

A professor of Pharmacology at the ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN), Helen Ochuko Kwanashie, has said that the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode of learning democratises education and breaks geographical barriers.

Kwanashie, of the NOUN’s�� Faculty of Health Sciences, stated this in an exaugural lecture that she delivered on Thursday at the university’s headquarters in Abuja.

The lecture, titled: “From Chalkboards to Digital Networks: A Career Academic’s Forty-Four Year Journey from Face-to-Face Teaching through Open and Distance Education to Social Learning,” traced her four and a half decades of teaching career, marked by dedication and unwavering commitment to learning.

She reflected on her background and shared insights by tracing her evolution from face-to-face teaching at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, to embracing Open and Distance Learning (ODL).

According to her, the journey started her off in social learning at the ABU and more extensively at NOUN and finally to advocating for social learning models that foster collaboration and inclusivity.

Reflecting on how technology has transformed education, Kwanashie said: “The chalkboard was my first canvas, but digital networks have allowed me to reach students across Nigeria and beyond.”

She provided a comparative analysis of face-to-face learning, ODL, and social learning, emphasising the strengths and challenges of each.

“Face-to-face learning fosters immediate interaction, but ODL democratises education, breaking geographical barriers,” she noted, adding that social learning integrates collaborative and technology-driven approaches, creating dynamic learning ecosystems.

She painted a picture of the evolution of teaching tools and methodologies, chronicling her personal transition from the era of blackboards and chalk, through whiteboards, to the current age of interactive smartboards that have bridged physical and digital learning spaces.

The lecturer described her four and a half years at NOUN as “impactful and happy,” and were marked by significant contributions to the institution’s academic framework.

She touched on her impact at NOUN where she presented data that included a compelling chart that demonstrated a general uptick in student performance and a drastic reduction in failure rates during her time as supervisor.

Addressing gender equity, she called for systemic changes at NOUN to support women, particularly those with young children and advocated for the establishment of a crèche to improve attendance and academic performance among female students and staff.

“Empowering women in education requires practical support systems that acknowledge their unique challenges,” she said, while envisioning an “open” educational landscape where technology and inclusivity converge to make learning accessible to all.

The exaugural lecturer also highlighted international collaborations with the UK’s University of Leeds, which facilitated knowledge exchange in pharmacology and ODL methodologies.

She expressed optimism about future collaborations, citing ongoing discussions with global institutions to advance NOUN’s research and teaching capabilities.

Kwanashie also used the opportunity to advocate for the establishment of the Drosophila Lab in the university, which utilises Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) as a model for pharmacological research,�� explaining how it offers a cost-effective, ethical alternative to mammalian models,and�� advancing bioscience education and drug discovery.

She argued that the establishment of this lab would position NOUN as a leader in innovative research.

Kwanashie also touched on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in counselling and content personalisation, emphasising its role in reducing dissatisfaction and improving student satisfaction in ODL.

On her post-retirement aspirations, the 70-year-old professor shared plans to continue mentoring young academics, expand her Drosophila research, and explore AI-driven counseling to support distance-learning students.

While expressing her heartfelt thanks to her family and appreciating their belief in her, she disclosed that NOUN has provided her the space to experiment, innovate and mentor in a conducive environment.

The event had earlier begun with an opening address by NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters, who delivered not just a formal welcome but recounted their shared journey that began at the University of Ibadan and where they had even taken Chemistry classes together.

He said: “Helen and I were classmates in Chemistry. Even then, her discipline and seriousness were unmistakable. She would sit right at the front — meticulous and incredibly focused. We crossed paths a few times through our careers, and I have been privileged to watch her evolve from a brilliant student to a respected scholar.”

Peters lauded her time at NOUN as “four and a half years of exemplary work,” citing improvements in academic delivery.

The VC lauded Kwanashie as “a visionary who has bridged traditional and digital education,” and re-affirmed NOUN’s commitment to her recommendations, including the crèche and further development of the Drosophila Lab.

He particularly praised her for recognising the university’s support, saying, “Her gratitude reflects the collaborative spirit that defines NOUN.”

A goodwill message was given by her son, Mr. Mega Kwanashie, who celebrated his mother’s dedication with the words: “Her passion for teaching and mentoring has shaped countless lives, including ours at home.”

He described her legacy as more than academic — emphasising her ability to inspire, counsel, to push those around her to strive for excellence.

The lecturer’s family was led to the event by her husband, Professor Michael Kwanashie, a former Vice-Chancellor of Veritas University, Abuja.

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L-R: Commandant of EFCC Academy, Dr. Joseph Ogwiji(3rd-L),NOUN-OOCAS director, Prof. Wilfred Ugwuanyi(4th-L) in group photograph with NOUN and EFCC academy staff

The��Director, Olusegun Obasanjo Centre of African��Studies,��ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN-OOCAS), Prof.��Wilfred Ugwuanyi,��has sought for a collaboration with the��academy arm of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission��(EFCC)��on��anti-corruption workshops.

The wide-ranging sensitisation workshops OOCAS sought��target��traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community-based organisations.

The director��dropped this request��when he led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the EFCC Academy in Karu,��Abuja, recently.

OOCAS, during the visit, also tabled the need to hold such��workshops��for INEC and States��Independent Electoral Commission in the 36 States on����“Electoral and Anti-Corruption��Campaign in Nigeria.

L-R: Prof. Wilfred Ugwuanyi, Dr. Joseph Ogwiji during the visit

Other areas are: Collaborative Research on��Corruption and��Violence in North-east Nigeria, a��Book��Project on Anti-Corruption��Studies in Nigeria, Development of��Sensitisation��Materials on��Corruption and Anti-Corruption to be disseminated��to secondary schools and tertiary institutions,��among others.

“We seek collaboration with the anti-corruption��academy; we are devising ways to work together for the progress of our great country and also benefit for Africa,”��Ugwuanyi said.

Responding, the commandant of EFCC Academy,��Dr. Joseph Ogwiji,��welcomed��the delegation ideas and promised��that his agency��was very interested in collaborating with OOCAS.

The OOCAS delegation��comprised of��Prof. Kenneth Azingba, Dr. Chidozie Atuonwa and Dr. Kayode Odedino.

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Prof. Oniye, reading the communique

The Open, Distance and eLearning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN) has��called on stakeholders to outdo with the obsolete policies and embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools .

It said continuous and consistent training for Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be prioritised across distance learning institutions.

The��association said��integrating AI and updating regulations are crucial to improving��learning outcomes and ensure the education system keeps pace with technological advancements.

These were��part of the 20-point communique issued and signed by��the��15-man Communique Committee Members chaired by Prof. Christine Ofulue,��Director, NOUN-RETRIDOL,��at the end of the 3rd ODeLAN International Conference hosted by the ˮ���� of Nigeria.

The conference was��held between May 14 to 16, 2025 at the headquarters of the��university��in��Abuja, with the theme: “Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies and Communities.”

A��total of 280 participants registered for the conference, and over 100 papers were presented.

The communique,��read by the Prof. Sonnie J. Oniye,��the��Dean,��School of��Postgraduate��Studies��of��NOUN,��urged the Federal Government to support institutional access to AI��tools and prioritise funding for continuous training in technology integration within Nigeria’s distance education system.

It��made a strong call for adaptive pedagogies to shape the future of education in Nigeria, calling on institutions to invest in faculty training and digital upskilling for all staff to effectively integrate technology into teaching and learning.

It also called��for proactive reorientation on ODL, of teachers and all other categories of staff who work within the ODL ecosystem as well as the factors which influence the choice of adaptive pedagogies��that��include cost, accessibility, acceptability, user-friendliness, and sustainability.

It also��identified critical gaps in digital equity, educator capacity, and collaborative research within the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) ecosystem.

ODeLAN,��in its recommendations,��called on the��government��to��support the creation of enabling policy environments that foster inclusivity, accessibility, and quality in ODeL, drive regulatory reforms that promote ethical and effective delivery of distance education across Nigeria��and��ensure��that��political will is sustained in implementing digitisation strategies in education.

“Support institutional access to AI tools and fund continuous training for technology integration, facilitate access to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for distance learners, among others,” the communique said.

It also called on the��institutions to invest in continuous capacity building for educators at all levels to improve digital literacy and technology integration, adopt and adapt the ACDE Quality Assurance Toolkit to strengthen internal QA processes��and��implement robust institutional policies for the ethical use of artificial intelligence in education.

The communique also implored��ODeLAN to be proactive in contributing to national educational discourse on ODL and related technological reforms, engage with professional bodies to raise awareness and deepen their understanding of the ODL delivery model.

The conference brought together a wide range of stakeholders in Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL),��including policymakers, academics, researchers, education technologists, development partners, and students to engage on the future of education through adaptive pedagogies and technological integration.

It also featured three keynote presentations by distinguished global leaders in��open and distance learning: Professor Peter Scott, President, Commonwealth of Learning (COL),��Professor Mpine Makoe, Executive Dean of Education, University of South Africa (UNISA);��Prof.��Tayo Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor, MIVA Open University, Abuja, Nigeria.

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Representative of the minister of education

The Federal government has reasserted its commitment to strengthening Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in Nigeria through execution of relevant policies aimed at enhancing education delivery across the country.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, stated this while declaring open the 3rd International Conference of the Open Distance and eLearning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN), held at the ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN) headquarters in Abuja.

The minister, represented by the deputy director of university education at the Federal Ministry of Education, Kareem Olawale, described the conference theme as timely and essential to repositioning ODL to expand access to quality education.

According to the him, the 3rd ODeLAN conference with the theme: “Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologists, and Communities,” could not be more timely than this.

“In an age defined by rapid technological innovation,” the minister said, “ shifting learner demographics and global perspectives in need for an education system with diversity, inclusiveness, and future-ready has never been. Today, we gather to share our views.

“This conference provides an opportunity to take those lessons further, moving from emergency remote teaching to sustainable, attractive, and inclusive educational knowledge. As a government, we remain committed to strengthening open and distance learning in our national policy framework.”

Alausa added that government has recognised “this potential to extend access to quality education, especially in underserved communities, and to support lifelong e-learning.

“I commend ODeLAN for its continued efforts in building a community of practice that supports innovation, research, and collaboration in the e-learning space.”

In his welcome address, titled ODeLAN : Where Next? What Next? NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, extolled ODeLAN’s impact, describing the association as a success story in the field of distance learning.

Prof. Peters

“ODeLAN has been a success story thus far. Within five years of establishment, it has already organised 3 conferences and has seen its membership grow to over 500 individuals and about 21 institutional members. This year, it has even been able to attract international participants.

“From my biased view, I must say that the success of ODeLAN has been due largely to the dedication and steering capability of the President, Professor Francis Egbokhare, FAL and one-time Director of the Distance Learning Institute, University of Ibadan, under the VCship of Professor Olufemi Bamiro and members of his board,” the VC said.

Peters, while expressing the readiness of the university to support to achieve its full potentials, he reiterated that the NOUN will furnish the organisation’s secretariat when established.

In his address, ODeLAN president, Prof. Francis Egbokhare, highlighted the association’s mission to promote research-driven policies and practices tailored to Nigeria’s unique educational landscape.

Prof. Francis Egbokhare, ODeLAN President

“ODeLAN seeks to become an effective forum for collaboration by researchers, teachers, practitioners, policy makers and institutions.

“To date, we have over 500 individual and institutional members drawn from across Nigeria. At the last conference, we opened up membership to policy makers, teachers at the basic level, private sector practitioners and all interested persons who share our vision,” he added.

Egbokhare, however, raised concerns about systemic challenges affecting distance learning in the country, particularly regarding discriminatory policies.

“The denial of ODL students access to government subsidy on tuition and student loans undermines their rights as citizens. This is a grave injustice on Nigerians whose only crime is the mode of learning that they chose or which circumstances has foisted on them.

A Cross-Section of participants

“There is a great injustice facing ODL students. Challenges of parity of esteem and arbitrarily limiting the programme options available to distance learners is the norm.

“One still wonders why professional organisations insist that certain courses should not be run through the ODL mode whereas many of these persons take diverse professional development training through the same mode,’’ he stated.

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ˮ���� Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peters

The Vice-Chancellor,��ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof.��Olufemi Peters, has called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to formulate clear policies and regulatory frameworks that will support the adoption of micro-credentials in Nigeria’s education sector.

The Vice-Chancellor��stated this during the opening ceremony of a��2-day pre-conference workshop themed: ��“Developing a Commonwealth Credit Transfer Framework: ��Micro-credentials in a��Digital��Age.”

The conference was��organised by NOUN in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL),��which was between��May��13 – 14,��2025 at NOUN��headquarters, Jabi-Abuja.

“I call on the National regulatory bodies and especially the NUC to take the leadership role in formulating nationall-clear definitions, standards and goals, aligning with national education goals and quality assurance measures, that would strengthen micro-credentialing in our country.

“Integration of micro-credentials is crucial for the future of education and workforce development. Micro-credentialing is reshaping the landscape of education professional development and increasingly seen as a viable alternative to traditional academic degree structures, ”he said.

Peters��warned that the rapid adoption of alternative learning pathways, driven by advancements in AI and digital technologies, could redefine the value of traditional academic qualifications.

“I am aware there are still some challenges related to recognition and certification, but I am certain micro-credentials will play a critical role in shaping the future of professional education, making them a compelling alternative to traditional academic degrees.

Group photograph at the end of the opening ceremony

“This is the reason institutions, and national regulatory bodies must seize the initiative to develop policies and regulations that will ensure its relevance to society and the emerging job market,” he said.

The VC��stressed the need for nationally recognised guidelines to ensure the quality and relevance of micro-credentials, aligning with national education objectives and quality assurance measures.

He��further called for immediate attention from policymakers and educational institutions to establish clear standards for micro-credentials in the country.

On his part, the President of��Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Prof.��Peter Scott in a video message, described micro-credentials as vital tools in an era of rapid technological change and global mobility.

Prof. Peter Scott , President COL

According to Scott, the��workshop��was��“a vital part of a collective effort to shape the future of education and training across the��Commonwealth,��enhancing the portability and recognition of qualifications and treating micro-credentials as shared tools we develop and use together.

“In an era defined by digital transformation due to increased digitalisation, the use of general artificial intelligence, the global workforce mobility, and indeed the need for continuous learning, micro-credentials have emerged as a flexible and powerful tool.”

The president explained that micro-credentials “allow us to bridge skill gaps, to improve employability, and they provide individuals with new pathways to professional growth. However, for micro-credentials to achieve their full potential, they must comply with common standards.

“They must be recognised and transferable across institutions, into industries, and through national borders. This is where working together on a common framework really matters. Now, this meeting is not just an opportunity to share insights.

“It also offers a platform to engage in meaningful discussions, to exchange experiences, and to contribute to a robust credit transfer framework for micro-credentials in the��Commonwealth that is both inclusive and implementable,” he said.

Director of Education, Science and Culture at the ECOWAS Commission, Dr.��Roland Kouakou,��while��speaking on the significance of harmonisation across borders,��emphasised the role of micro-credentials and credit transfer systems in enabling educational mobility across the region.

“You know, credit transfer is like your son has a, let’s say, certificate in Nigeria. And you want to go from there in Ghana. How he can take this credit from Nigeria and go to Ghana without losing a year. So, this kind of partnership among the university and partnership is very important.

“So, you will enhance the mobility of your son from Nigeria to another country. You are going, for example, when you leave Nigeria to UK, sometimes the university, they are trying to see at which level they are going to maybe put you in the university.

“So, they are trying to see the equivalence from your certificate to their own level. So, in our region, I think that what the��Commonwealth are doing is very important because you will enhance the mobility of the youth in the region,”��Kouakou��said.

In her��address, Professor Jane-Frances Agbu, Adviser on Higher Education at COL, noted that micro-credentials are increasingly important in enabling quick upskilling and reskilling in the face of evolving workforce demands.

Professor Jane-Frances Agbu, Adviser on Higher Education at COL

Agbu said the event was organised to engage with key national and institutional post-secondary education stakeholders at the regional level; share findings of in-depth reviews of micro-credentialing literature, tools, and practices throughout the��Commonwealth; determine the national and regional needs in terms of credit transfer and micro-credentialing; and obtain inputs from the stakeholders to inform the draft Commonwealth Credit Transfer Framework for Micro-Credentials.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Director, RETRIDOL, Prof. Christine Ofulue,��said the thrust of the workshop��was to share findings of in-depth reviews of micro-credentialing literature, tools and practices throughout the��commonwealth with stakeholders.

Prof. Christine Ofulue, Director,NOUN- RETRIDOL

The workshop was to also determine the national and regional needs in terms of credit transfer and micro-credentialing, obtain inputs from stakeholders to inform the draft Commonwealth Credit Transfer Framework for Micro-Credentials, among others.

She further stressed that the meeting would focus on drafting a Commonwealth��Credit��Transfer��Framework specifically designed for micro-credentials.

“This framework��would be developed through an inclusive consultation process, ensuring that diverse viewpoints and expertise are integrated into the final document,” Ofulue said.

The framework, she noted, would facilitate the recognition and transfer of micro-credentials across institutions and borders within the��Commonwealth, thereby enhancing mobility and opportunities for learners.

Ofulue also emphasised on the need for a unified continental framework to facilitate credential recognition across borders.

“The current difficulties that we have in recognising credentials from other countries, both from here and in West Africa, will be a thing of the past. When this framework is done, we will have an instrument that will enable the different countries to be able to properly recognise and properly situate credentials, depending on where you are from,” she said.

She noted that the framework is expected to be finalised within a year.

The workshop ��witnessed participants from African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Cameroon��and��Togo all of which are exploring collaborative strategies for the standardisation of micro-credential systems on the continent.

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Prof. Kwanashie

The Exaugural Lecture of Prof.��Helen O. Kwanashie,��ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN),��has been scheduled to take place on Thursday, May��22, 2025 at the university headquarters in Abuja.

Kwanashie��is��a��professor of Pharmacology and Guidance-Counsellor in the Faculty of Health Sciences of the university.

She��will present on the topic:��From��Chalkboards��To��Digital��Networks: A Career Academic’s Forty-Four Year Journey from Face-to-Face Teaching through Open and Distance Education to Social Learning.

The lecture will take place at the Conference Centre of NOUN, Jabi, Abuja by 11am, according to a memo released by the DVC, Academic, Prof. Chiedu Mafiana.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, is going to be the Chief Host at the event.

Meanwhile, below is the meeting link for the virtual participation of the Inaugural Lecture:

��Meeting ID: 939 3597 5406

Passcode: 921361

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The Vice-Chancellor

Vice-Chancellor of the ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Olufemi Peters, has implored new students to uphold the values of academic integrity, hard work and excellence as they sojourn in their academic activities with the institution.

He was speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at the university’s 28th matriculation ceremony, where a total of 25,342 students matriculated across nine faculties.

Out of the figure, 18,698 were admitted for various undergraduate degree programmes and 6,564 for postgraduate programmes, including doctorate students.

In his speech,�� Peters urged the freshers to build positive networks and healthy relationships while shunning vices that would serve as a distraction to their academic pursuit.

He said: “Your journey at NOUN is not just about earning a degree, it is about transforming yourself into well-rounded, innovative and resourceful individuals.

“Take full advantage of the flexible learning opportunities to pursue your academic and personal goals. Remember, the discipline and resilience you develop here will not only serve you during your time at NOUN, but throughout your career and life.”

The VC emphasised that the ODL mode of education is not inferior to the conventional brick-and-mortar system, stressing that evidence abounds of the remarkable success and professional feats recorded by students who graduated from the university.

Study Centres

“NOUN graduates have excelled in various fields, making significant contributions to their professions and communities,” he said, adding, “Indeed, many of our graduates have risen to prominent positions in government, industry and academia, demonstrating the high-quality education that NOUN provides.”

Speaking on the benefits of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system which the university operates, Peters underscored its flexibility to learn at one’s pace, place and time using modern educational technologies.

He said: “At NOUN, your classroom is not confined to four walls; instead, it extends to your homes, workplaces or wherever you choose to study. This approach not only gives you flexibility over how you study, it also equips you with the self-discipline, time-management and digital skills that are essential in today’s world.”

He further�� encouraged them to�� utilise all the resources and learning aids the university offers even as he implored them�� to take note and get accustomed to the use of digital facilities such as smart phones and or computer gadgets.

As the new students begin the journey through their various programmes, the VC enjoined them to explore the wealth of materials available in the Learning Management System (LMS), attend facilitation classes regularly, and prepare diligently for the Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs), among others.

“The future of education lies in Open and Distance Learning and you are privileged to be part of this forward-thinking approach to education,” he added.

Mr.Oladipo A. Ajayi (Registrar) administering oath on the teeming students

Meanwhile, the Registrar of the university, Mr. Oladipo A. Ajayi, administered the matriculation oath on the teeming students.

The event, which took place at the institution’s headquarters in Abuja, was streamed virtually across its 120 study centres nationwide.

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ODeLAN, NOUN joint Conference

The Open, Distance and e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN), in collaboration with the ˮ���� of Nigeria (NOUN), is set to hold the third edition of the ODeLAN International Conference in Nigeria.

The conference will aim to strengthen the field of Open and Distance Learning (ODL), using adaptive technologies.

It will hold between May 14 – 16, 2025 at the Conference Centre, NOUN Headquarters, Jabi, Abuja with theme:��Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies and Communities.

According to the Chairman, Local Organising (LOC) Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, the��Participants are expected to explore innovative open educational approaches and models for shaping the future of learning in African contexts across all educational levels.

However, the annual conference which is a leading national and international gathering on open, distance and technology-enabled learning, will also explore practical, engaging approaches to connect learners, technologies, and communities for a brighter educational future

The hybrid event will witness the convergence of all educators, academics, researchers and practitioners from Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and pre-tertiary levels; policy makers, industry professionals, government agency representatives and the general public.

Other relevant stakeholders and eminent personalities are also expected to attend.

The confab will feature paper presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, focusing on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in open, distance, and e-learning as well as opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among participants.

Keynote speakers include: Prof. Peter Scott, President Commonwealth of Learning, Canada, Prof. Mpine Makoe, Executive Dean College of Education, University of South Africa, Prof. Tayo Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor, Miva Open University, Abuja Nigeria.

It would be recalled that the first series of the international conference was held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria in 2023 with theme:����Global��Spaces,��Local��Contexts:��Digital��Transformations and��Creative��Innovations in��Open��Distance and e-learning (ODeL)

While the second edition was held at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2024 with theme:��Inclusive��Digital��Learning��Ecosystems in��Open,��Distance and e-learning��Education.

Meanwhile, the pre-conference workshop will feature a paper presentation on topic: Developing a Commonwealth Credit Transfer Framework: Micro-credentials in a Digital Age- Regional Consultative Meeting for West Africa.

ODeLAN is dedicated to creating a community of learners and educators who are passionate about advancing their knowledge and skills; bringing together students, teachers, researchers, and industry experts from diverse backgrounds to collaborate and exchange ideas.

It also provides a platform for members to share their research findings, participate in workshops, and attend conferences to enhance their knowledge and competencies.

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