NUC, ODELAN explore partnership to strengthen open and distance learning

Education

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The National Universities Commission (NUC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening access to quality university education through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) as it explores collaboration with the Open Distance and e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODELAN).

The commitment was made by the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, during a courtesy visit by a delegation of ODELAN to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The delegation was led by the President of the association, Professor Francis Egboghare.

According to ODELAN, the association was established to support efforts aimed at advancing Open and Distance Learning in Nigeria through research, capacity building, mentorship and strategic partnerships.

The delegation informed the NUC leadership of its desire to develop a collaborative framework with the Commission to enhance the delivery and practice of ODL across the country.

Speaking during the meeting, Ribadu commended ODELAN for its contributions to the growth of Open and Distance Learning in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of research, professional development and mentorship.

He noted that members of the association had consistently supported activities of the Commission and contributed to the development of its database of ODL practitioners.

The NUC boss reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to partner with stakeholders committed to expanding educational opportunities and improving access to higher education through technology-driven learning platforms.

He stressed the importance of collaboration in strengthening the quality, accessibility and effectiveness of Open and Distance Learning programmes nationwide.

In his remarks, Egboghare reiterated the association’s commitment to working closely with the NUC to advance the ODL sector.

He said ODELAN was prepared to provide policy proposals and a framework for sustained collaboration aimed at enhancing the delivery of Open and Distance Learning programmes in Nigeria.

The proposed partnership is expected to support ongoing efforts to improve access to tertiary education, promote innovation in learning delivery and strengthen institutional capacity within the country’s higher education system.