Ibadan, Nigeria – Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Idowu Olayinka, has been appointed as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council for the newly established West Midlands Open University, Ibadan. His appointment was formalized during an inauguration ceremony that also saw the induction of key members of the university’s leadership.
Prof. Olayinka was inaugurated alongside several prominent figures, including the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumide Babatope Longe, Senate Representative Air Commodore (Dr.) Akeem Adebomehin, Convocation Representative Prof. Adenike Osofisan, and Mrs. Bisi Asimolowo, among others. The National Universities Commission (NUC) was represented by Dr. Ligari Gabriel Hadu, while the university’s Registrar, Adekunle Durosinmi, also serves as the Secretary of the Governing Council.
During his remarks after the ceremony, Prof. Olayinka emphasized the critical role of education in tackling the country’s literacy challenges, particularly in rural areas. He expressed optimism that distance learning could play a key role in addressing the nation’s high illiteracy rates, offering flexible and accessible education options for those who might otherwise be excluded from traditional education systems.
“Distance learning is not new to Nigeria,” Prof. Olayinka noted. “The country has a long history of distance education dating back to the 19th century. Modern technology has now made it more effective and widespread, providing opportunities for unreached populations to access education and, in turn, raise literacy rates across the country.”
In his address, Prof. Longe, the new Vice Chancellor, outlined the university’s mission to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. He stated that the institution would focus on delivering impactful learning programs aimed at contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic and technological growth.
“West Midlands Open University is committed to redefining education in Nigeria and beyond,” Prof. Longe said. “We aim to offer lifelong learning opportunities that will empower individuals and communities, fostering academic excellence and leadership.”
The university was founded by Oba Adebayo Akande, the Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, who expressed his hopes for the success of the new institution. In his speech, the traditional ruler emphasized the importance of nurturing future leaders and promoting academic excellence through the university’s initiatives.
Oba Akande also offered his prayers for the success of the newly inaugurated governing council members in their roles.
West Midlands Open University, with a vision to address Nigeria’s educational challenges, is set to play a transformative role in the country’s higher education sector.
