The Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, has urged upcoming PhD graduands under the African Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL), to utilise their digital expertise to drive development in their respective countries.
He said the scholars are specialising in high-demand courses such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Management Information Systems.
“These programmes are on the rise, attracting a considerable number of students. We anticipate further growth as we demonstrate our commitment to providing quality education remotely,” he said.
Speaking in anticipation of the 13th convocation ceremony slated for Saturday, in Abuja on Thursday, Prof. Peters said: “I expect these graduates from Nigeria and other African nations, now equipped with digital expertise, to spearhead developmental initiatives, especially in the realm of technology for education.”
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Peters said the institution is set to graduate six PhD students, with ACETEL making a significant contribution of four to this cohort.
“I commend the Centre for producing such a notable number of PhD scholars within a short span of five years. Additionally, we have eleven MSc students graduating,” Peters said.
Peters underscored the pivotal role of ACETEL’s digital infrastructure in supporting the university’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system.
“The digital infrastructure facilitated by the Centre is integral to our ODL delivery. It plays a crucial role in providing accessible and high-quality education to our diverse student body.”
Assuring continued support beyond World Bank funding, the vice-chancellor acknowledged ACETEL’s role in garnering international recognition for the university.
He expressed pride in the partnerships and collaborations established with national and international institutions, emphasising their significance for future endeavours.
The vice-chancellor, however, urged them to remain good ambassadors of the university.
