NOUN strategises to strengthen open, distance learning

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Chiedu Mafiana, says the institution is re-strategising to strengthen its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) pattern of education.

Mafiana said this in an interview with our reporter on Wednesday in Abuja.

He noted that other universities under the auspices of Open, Distance and e-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN) would be carried along.

Mafiana said ODeLAN would collaborate with NOUN to strengthen the field of the ODL, using adaptive technologies.

“This is the reason we have decided to hold the third edition of the ODeLAN International Conference in Nigeria, from May 14 to May 16, 2025 at the Conference Centre, NOUN Headquarters, Abuja.

“The theme of the conference is Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies and Communities,” Mafiana said.

Mafiana, who doubles as the Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the conference, participants are expected to explore innovative open educational approaches and models for shaping the future of learning in African contexts across all educational levels.

He said the annual conference would also explore practical, engaging approaches to connect learners, technologies and communities for a brighter educational future.

Mafiana said the event would witness the convergence of educators, academics, researchers and practitioners from universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and pre-tertiary levels.

He added that policy makers, industry professionals, government agency representatives and the general public would participate in the event.

Mafiana said the conference would feature paper presentations, panel discussions and workshops, with focus on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in open, distance, and e-learning.

“Prof. Peter Scott, President Commonwealth of Learning, Canada; Prof. Mpine Makoe, Executive Dean College of Education, University of South Africa and Prof. Tayo Arulogun, Vice-Chancellor, Miva Open University, Abuja Nigeria, are the keynote speakers,” he said.

It would be recalled that the first series of the international conference was held at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun, in 2023 with the theme, “Global Spaces, Local Contexts: Digital Transformations and Creative Innovations in Open Distance and e-learning”.

The second edition was held at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2024 with the theme: “Inclusive Digital Learning Ecosystems in Open, Distance and e-learning Education.”