Excitement buzzes around the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) as it gears up to celebrate the achievements of 22,175 students in its 13th Convocation Ceremony. Amidst this milestone, 22 standout graduates will be honoured with First Class degrees, showcasing the high calibre of students NOUN nurtures. The event is also set to be marked by the investiture of a new chancellor, highlighting a significant moment in the institution's history.
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is gearing up for a momentous occasion in its academic calendar. According to Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice-Chancellor, NOUN is set to confer degrees on 22,175 students, including 22 outstanding individuals who have achieved First Class honours, during its 13th Convocation Ceremony. This significant announcement was made at a press briefing on April 8, 2024, at the university’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, setting the stage for a series of celebratory events.
An Investiture to Remember
Highlighting the convocation’s agenda, Prof. Peters disclosed that the investiture of the university’s new chancellor, His Royal Majesty OMO N’OBA N’EDO, UKU AKPOLOKPOLO Ewuare II, The Oba of Benin, would take place on Thursday, April 11, 2024. This pivotal event, scheduled amidst the festive season affected by the Ramadan moon-sighting, promises to add a regal touch to the proceedings.
Graduating Class Overview
Delving into the details, the Vice-Chancellor revealed that the convocation would celebrate the achievements of 15,768 undergraduates and 6,407 postgraduate students, alongside six PhD recipients. The Faculty of Social Sciences stands out with the highest number of graduates, contributing significantly to the undergraduate tally.
Expansion and Technological Advancement
NOUN’s commitment to accessibility and quality education is evident in its remarkable expansion from approximately 17 study centres in 2003 to about 120 centres across the nation today. This expansion, driven by continuous demand, underscores NOUN’s role as a crucial alternative for students facing barriers to conventional university education.
The Vice-Chancellor took pride in highlighting NOUN’s leadership in employing technology in education within Nigeria and across West, East, and North Africa. This technological edge, recognized and supported by TETFUND through the provision of fibre optic connectivity to all study centres, sets NOUN apart as a pioneer in digital learning.
Convocation Lecture: A Reflection 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. This choice of speaker reflects the longstanding support and collaboration between NOUN and its Tanzanian counterpart, signifying a shared vision for open and distance learning in Africa.
A University for All
Prof. Peters emphasised NOUN’s alignment with federal government objectives and its recognition among diverse communities, including prison inmates. This inclusivity highlights NOUN’s success in making higher education accessible to all, regardless of societal position or geographical constraints.
Gratitude to the Media
The university’s leadership expressed gratitude towards the media for their role in publicising NOUN’s activities and achievements. The Director of Media and Publicity, Malam Ibrahim Sheme, and the Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, both acknowledged the media’s contribution to NOUN’s growth and pledged continued collaboration.
Conclusion
NOUN’s 13th Convocation is more than just a celebration of academic achievements; it’s a testament to the university’s dedication to expanding access to quality education, embracing technological advancements, and fostering community engagement. As NOUN continues to break new ground and reach out to all corners of Nigeria, it remains a beacon of hope and a model for the future of higher education.