ABIA – Governor Alex Otti has called on Nigerians to embrace digital and distance education, describing it as the way forward in contemporary times.
Governor Otti made the call while receiving a delegation from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), led by its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Uduma Orji Uduma, at his office. He commended NOUN for pioneering virtual learning in Nigeria.
The Governor approved the establishment of a NOUN study centre in Aba and directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education to conduct a feasibility study on the upgrade of the Umuahia study centre, in response to requests made by the institution’s Vice-Chancellor.
The State Chief Executive thanked the university management for their efforts in expanding access to education through the establishment of study centres, including those in Asaga Ohafia and the state capital. He also congratulated the Ebonyi State-born Vice-Chancellor on his appointment.
Governor Otti noted that his administration places high priority on education, revealing that 20 percent of the state’s annual budget has been consistently allocated to the sector over the past three years. He further disclosed that three smart schools would soon be commissioned within the month.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor and leader of the delegation, Professor Uduma Orji Uduma, said the visit was to seek partnership with the state government for the establishment of a study centre in Aba. He described open and distance learning as essential for the 21st century.
He noted that NOUN currently operates 120 study centres nationwide, with only eight located in the South-East. He appealed to the state government to support the acquisition of land for a study centre in Aba and assist in upgrading the existing Umuahia centre to expand access to flexible learning opportunities for Abians.
Professor Uduma also commended Governor Otti’s developmental strides, noting that his people-oriented projects have earned widespread admiration across the country.
The visit was attended by the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, alongside other commissioners and senior government appointees.
