In a recent address at the 13th convocation ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), President Bola Tinubu emphasised the importance of adhering to guidelines for good governance and proper financial management in tertiary institutions.
Following the Federal Executive Council’s decision to remove Federal Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education from the Integrated Personnel Payment System (IPPIS) last December, Tinubu highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Federal Ministry of Education and relevant stakeholders in developing these guidelines.
Represented by Joel Saliu, the Deputy Executive Secretary, Academics at the National Universities Commission, Tinubu underscored the significance of implementing these guidelines to ensure transparency and accountability across higher education institutions.
Furthermore, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting open and distance learning (ODL) approaches, aiming to enhance access to education. He announced the licencing of four private open universities alongside NOUN, reflecting the government’s dedication to integrating technology into tertiary education delivery to improve quality, accessibility, and affordability.
Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, highlighted the university’s significant growth, with active student enrollment reaching 170,000 in 2024.
He encouraged graduates to consider furthering their education, emphasising NOUN’s commitment to facilitating academic aspirations.
The investiture of the new Chancellor of NOUN, Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’ Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, brought a pledge to enhance the institution’s excellence, innovation, and inclusivity.
The Oba expressed his vision to leverage his position to bolster NOUN’s standing as a pioneer in open and distance e-learning, aiming to transcend borders and transform lives through education.
In conclusion, the ceremony heralded a collective commitment to upholding the values of integrity, scholarship, and service, fostering a brighter future for higher education in Nigeria and beyond.
