President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has identified the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) as a critical solution to Nigeria’s persistent university admission crisis.
The position underscores the growing importance of open and distance learning in expanding access to higher education across the country.
NOUN as a Strategic Solution to Admission Crisis in Nigeria
Speaking at the institution’s 15th convocation ceremony, the President described NOUN as a “vital instrument” for addressing the widening gap between the number of admission seekers and available spaces in conventional universities.
With over two million candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) annually, only a fraction secure admission, leaving millions of qualified Nigerians without access to tertiary education.
Tinubu noted that open and distance learning provides a scalable solution capable of accommodating more students without compromising academic standards.
Expanding Access Through Flexible Learning
The President commended NOUN’s flexible learning model, highlighting its ability to remove traditional barriers to education.
He noted that the system enables:
- Working professionals to pursue degrees
- Women and entrepreneurs to access education
- Security personnel to improve qualifications
- Individuals constrained by geography or age to learn
This inclusive approach, he said, is essential for democratizing education in Nigeria.
Supporting Rehabilitation and Social Inclusion
Tinubu also praised the university’s collaboration with correctional institutions, which allows inmates to earn academic qualifications.
He described education as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and reintegration, noting that such initiatives give individuals a second chance at life and productivity.
Impressive Graduation Figures
At the convocation, more than 24,000 students graduated across various programmes, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees.
Notably:
- Over 17,000 earned undergraduate degrees
- More than 5,000 obtained master’s degrees
- Several inmates graduated through correctional education programmes
These figures reflect the scale and impact of NOUN in expanding access to higher education.
Government Commitment to Education Reform
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforming the education sector through:
- Expansion of access to tertiary education
- Investment in digital learning infrastructure
- Support for STEM and medical education
- Implementation of student loan schemes
He emphasized that technology-driven education will play a key role in building a more inclusive and globally competitive system.
Outlook: NOUN and Addressing Admission Crisis in Nigeria
The university also unveiled a five-year strategic plan (2026–2031) aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, expanding access, and boosting research output.
Plans include:
- Improved online learning platforms
- Enhanced connectivity across study centres
- Increased course offerings
The goal is to position NOUN as a global leader in open and distance learning.
Tinubu Identifies NOUN as Solution to Admission Crisis
As President Tinubu endorses NOUN, it highlights a shift toward innovative, technology-driven solutions to Nigeria’s education challenges.
By expanding access through flexible learning systems, the Federal Government aims to bridge the admission gap, empower more Nigerians, and strengthen the country’s human capital for future development.
