The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is gearing up for a significant event in its academic calendar. According to Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice-Chancellor, NOUN is poised to confer degrees on 22,175 students, including 22 outstanding individuals who have achieved First Class honours, during its upcoming 13th Convocation Ceremony. This momentous announcement was made at a press briefing held on April 8, 2024, at the university’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, heralding a series of celebratory events.
An Investiture to Remember
The convocation’s agenda includes the investiture of the university’s new chancellor, His Royal Majesty OMO N’OBA N’EDO, UKU AKPOLOKPOLO Ewuare II, The Oba of Benin, scheduled for Thursday, April 11, 2024. This significant event, occurring amidst the festive season marked by the Ramadan moon-sighting, promises to infuse a regal atmosphere into the proceedings.
Overview of the Graduating Class
Providing insight into the convocation, the Vice-Chancellor revealed that it would commemorate the accomplishments of 15,768 undergraduates and 6,407 postgraduate students, alongside six PhD recipients. The Faculty of Social Sciences emerges with the highest number of graduates, making a substantial contribution to the undergraduate cohort.
Expansion and Technological Advancement
NOUN’s dedication to accessible and quality education is evident in its remarkable expansion from around 17 study centres in 2003 to approximately 120 centres nationwide today. This expansion, driven by sustained demand, underscores NOUN’s pivotal role as an alternative for students encountering barriers to traditional university education.
The Vice-Chancellor proudly highlighted NOUN’s leadership in leveraging technology in education within Nigeria and across West, East, and North Africa. This technological prowess, acknowledged and supported by TETFUND through the provision of fibre optic connectivity to all study centres, positions NOUN as a trailblazer in digital learning.
Convocation Lecture: Reflecting on Education
The convocation lecture, titled “Is Western Education Still Relevant for Africa?”, will be delivered by Prof. Elifas Tozo Bisanda, Vice-Chancellor of the Open University of Tanzania. The selection of Prof. Bisanda as the speaker underscores the enduring support and collaboration between NOUN and its Tanzanian counterpart, symbolizing a shared vision for open and distance learning in Africa.
A University for All
Prof. Peters underscored NOUN’s alignment with federal government objectives and its recognition among diverse communities, including prison inmates. This inclusivity underscores NOUN’s success in democratizing higher education, transcending societal positions and geographical constraints.
Gratitude to the Media
The university leadership extended gratitude to the media for their role in disseminating information about NOUN’s activities and accomplishments. Both the Director of Media and Publicity, Malam Ibrahim Sheme, and the Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, acknowledged the media’s contribution to NOUN’s progress and pledged continued collaboration.
Conclusion
NOUN’s 13th Convocation represents more than just a celebration of academic milestones; it embodies the university’s commitment to expanding access to quality education, embracing technological advancements, and fostering community engagement. As NOUN continues to forge ahead and extend its reach across Nigeria, it remains a beacon of hope and a model for the future of higher education.
