President Bola Tinubu Has instructed leaders of educational departments to firmly adhere to federal government policies aimed at protecting the education sector from corruption and fraudulent organizations.
The president cautioned that the integrity of the academic system should remain intact, emphasizing that actions will be taken to halt and permanently discontinue the activities of those holding fraudulent certificates.
Tinubu stated that organizations such as the NYSC, JAMB, NUC, NBTE, and NCCE are collaborating to enhance educational standards. Their efforts aim to eliminate fraud and misrepresentation among domestic and international institutions, ensuring they do not infiltrate Nigeria’s academic environment.
The President urged NOUN to spearhead the advancement of digital education throughout Africa.
He urged the administration of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to create a detailed plan for transforming the institution into a fully online university, leveraging their experience and proficiency in open and distance education.
At the 14th convocation ceremony of the university in Abuja on Saturday, Tinubu addressed the gathering as the Visitor.
The President stated that the university should maximize its delivery systems by fully integrating technology across all areas.
The convocation ceremony celebrated the graduation of 17, 420 undergraduate and graduate students and honored Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, along with Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, for their outstanding contributions to the nation.
Tinubu, who was represented by Dr. Rakiya Gambo, the Director of University Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, stated that the transition necessitates NOUN to extensively utilize advanced digital resources to guarantee accessibility, adaptability, and superior educational standards.
He stated: "I want to reassure you that this administration will offer comprehensive backing for the initiative, making certain that essential policies, infrastructure, and resources are established to enable a smooth and sustainable transformation."
I strongly encourage the university administration to urgently create a detailed plan for this transformation. This should include clear stages, infrastructure requirements, and projected timeframes. Additionally, they must enhance the platform used for managing educational materials and incorporate new technologies like AI and VR to foster more engaging learning interactions.
It is commendable that the quality of education offered by National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) prompted the federal government to grant licenses for five additional private open universities in the country.
He added: “The federal government, under my leadership, remains committed to supporting education by liberating information technology to enhance learning. Through strategic intervention, we are ensuring that education remains inclusive and technologically driven.
Specifically, the federal government’s two-thirds funding scheme is supporting the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure at NOUN to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity for a significant number of students and study centers throughout the different geopolitical regions of Nigeria.
This program leverages technological capabilities to enhance educational accessibility and promote inclusion. Numerous institutions within our university system have greatly benefitted from several federal initiatives, notably those focused on bolstering financial frameworks and providing research funds directly to faculty via institution-led projects.
As he stated, during his leadership, the federal government stays dedicated to backing education through the use of information technology to improve teaching and learning experiences.
"By implementing targeted strategies, we aim to maintain an educational system that is both inclusive and technology-oriented. Specifically, the federal government's allocation is funding the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure at NOUN to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity for a large number of students and study centers throughout the different geopolitical regions of Nigeria," he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Peters Olufemi, stated that the institution continues to set itself apart through distinctive convocation ceremonies, showcasing its pioneering methods in education.
The VC motivated the graduating students to maintain honesty, strive for greatness, and apply their knowledge to make a positive difference in society.
He motivated them to stay linked with their alma mater through active participation in supporting the university’s developmental initiatives, either as individuals or as a group.
While they assemble in the elegantly designed Convocation Arena in Abuja, he explained that the ceremony is taking place concurrently at 36 study centers located in state capitals throughout the country.
He stated: "This flawless collaboration highlights the university's dedication to inclusiveness and access."
This 14th convocation ceremony provides NOUN with another chance to commemorate the scholarly accomplishments of its students.
He stated that a total of 17,420 students graduated, which includes 10,967 undergraduate students and 6,413 postgraduate students.
He added that at the undergraduate level, the breakdown was as follows: 16 students received first-class honors; 1,417 obtained upper-second-class honors; 5,518 earned lower-second-class honors; 2,761 were awarded third-class honors; and 138 achieved passing grades.
Including that 2,103 individuals will receive postgraduate diplomas, with
4,310 master's degrees and 40 doctoral degrees.
For the graduates, he offered his congratulations on achieving this significant step in their educational path, stating, "It is our hope that your tenure at the National Open University of Nigeria has equipped you to confront future hurdles and seize potential chances. Always keep in mind that your schooling isn’t merely an individual accomplishment but also a duty toward your society, country, and planet as a whole."
We have provided you with the essential knowledge, skills, and values needed to create a positive influence wherever you go.
As you embark on this new chapter, I encourage you to pursue excellence in everything you do. Develop
honesty, compassion, and resilience as your guiding principles throughout this journey."
Additionally, Isa Yuguda, the Pro-Chancellor of the university, appealed to President Tinubu to kindly approve allowing NOUN graduates to take part in the NYSC program just as students from other institutions do.
He stated: "I was previously informed that Mr. President had issued instructions regarding this matter; however, until now, the execution has faced some difficulties. This is precisely why we are pursuing this initiative—to ensure that our students can benefit from the national service program."
Yuguda mentioned that throughout the years, the student demographics at their institution have undergone changes. As both the number of students and programs grew, it became essential—in line with these transformations—that they should have access to similar opportunities as those found in traditional universities.
"This initiative aims to promote social justice equity through the National Collision program, encompassing knowledgeable Nigerians who can overcome challenges, thereby enhancing their employment prospects. This aligns with Mr. President's revitalized objectives. We seek support as this call corresponds with his agenda," he stated.
In his acceptance speech, the Speaker stated that the award resonates with the common values that bring Nigerians together.
He asserted that Nigeria’s prospects for the future beyond oil should be grounded in knowledge, innovation, and skills.
He stated: "Each day at the legislature, I uphold the belief that education should form the foundation for national progress."
Nigeria finds itself at a crucial point where educational reforms are essential and pressing. The youth of our nation possess great potential, and we need to provide them with the resources required to succeed in an increasingly significant global economy.
The Speaker stated that they will work alongside all stakeholders to guarantee that every Nigerian who wishes to learn has the chance to achieve success.
He thanked the management of the university for the honour on him and Adesina, saying they will be encouraged to do more of what they were doing that earned them the award.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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