Miva Open University on July 31st, 2024, hosted a groundbreaking public lecture that underscored the transformative power of Open Distance Learning (ODL) in Nigeria. The event, held at the National Universities Commission (NUC) Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together a distinguished array of academic and government leaders to discuss the evolving role of university administration in an Open Distance Learning (ODL) landscape.
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including Professor Emeritus Julius Okojie, former Executive Secretary of the NUC and Chairman of the event, the Acting Executive Secretary of the NUC, Chris Maiyaki, the Deputy Executive Secretary, Dr Nuel Salihu, the Chancellor of Miva Open University, Sim Shagaya, Vice-Chancellor of Miva Open university, Professor Tayo Arulogun, the university’s Registrar, Iheanyi Akwitti, staff of the NUC, administrators from other universities, as well as enthusiastic Miva students.
The highlight of the event was the address by the Acting Executive Secretary of the NUC, Chris Maiyaki. His presentation delved deep into the core of the lecture’s theme, “The Changing Role of University Administration in an Open Distance Learning (ODL) Setting.” Chris Maiyaki painted a compelling picture of the opportunities available in the digital age. He stated that, “It is that cost-effective method of education that transcends time, that transcends location, space and that is suitable for diverse education contexts; including Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, vocational and non-formal education. It is also that flexible, learner-centred move beyond the traditional brick and mortar classroom boundaries.” The “open” essence of ODL, according to Chris Maiyaki, lies in its “flexibility and accessibility of education ensuring broad availability without barriers – the suppression of barriers, between the learner and the teachers.”
He emphasised the benefits of ODL in addressing Nigeria’s educational challenges, stating, “With ODL we are assured that we will be able to attempt to bridge the gap – the huge gap between demand and supply. Statistics have it that nearly 2 million Nigerian children apply every year to go to university, but the 274 universities put together can only accommodate between 500,000 and 700,000 and that is not good enough. We hope that through ODL, we will broaden access and make sure more people have access to university education.” Additionally, he highlighted the important role that ODL plays in catering to people with special needs.
Chris Maiyaki’s insights offered a clear roadmap for universities navigating the complexities of ODL. He underscored the pivotal role of technology in delivering high-quality education, advocating for robust online platforms and accessible resources. The importance of comprehensive student support services, including counselling, mentorship, and academic advisory, were also emphasised. His call for a paradigm shift from traditional to student-centred approaches resonated strongly with the audience.
The event also featured speeches by Professor Emeritus Julius Okojie, who spoke to the potential of ODL to democratise education, and the Deputy Executive Secretary of the NUC, Dr. Nuel Salihu, who outlined the commission’s support for ODL. The Vice-Chancellor of Miva Open University, Professor Tayo Arulogun, welcomed guests and highlighted the university’s commitment to technology-driven tertiary education. The Chancellor of Miva Open University, Sim Shagaya, delivered an inspired address on the role of technology in reshaping higher education. He spoke about the importance of embracing healthy competition and collaboration among educators “as custodians of the future of our society, to build a qualitative, robust and dynamic tertiary education system.” He noted the need to be “open to change and constructive criticism, and doing things better every day.” The Registrar, Iheanyi Akwitti, also provided an overview of Miva’s ODL programmes.
This inaugural public lecture was a resounding success, demonstrating Miva Open University’s leadership in ODL and highlighting the growing support for this transformative mode of education in Nigeria. The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and inspiring future collaboration in the pursuit of accessible and quality higher education for all.
Learn more about Miva Open University’s qualitative, affordable and accessible programmes at www.miva.university.
