The National Universities Commission (NUC) has revealed plans to engage the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to allow graduates of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) participate in national service This development could mark a major shift in Nigeria’s education and youth service policy
The announcement was made during NOUN’s 15th convocation ceremony in Abuja, where thousands of students were awarded degrees The move signals growing recognition of open and distance learning as a vital part of Nigeria’s higher education system
NUC to Push Policy Change for NOUN Graduates
The Executive Secretary of NUC, Prof Abdullahi Ribadu, stated that discussions would begin with NYSC authorities to review existing policies that exclude many NOUN graduates from participating in the scheme
He explained that the structure of higher education in Nigeria is evolving, especially with the rise of younger graduates from open and distance learning institutions According to him, policy adjustments are necessary to reflect these changes and ensure fairness
Ribadu emphasized that unlike in the past, many graduates are now below the age threshold for NYSC and should not be denied the opportunity to serve
Federal Government Backs Education Reform
The NUC boss reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revisiting frameworks guiding NYSC participation He noted that expanding access to national service aligns with broader efforts to improve inclusion in Nigeria’s education system
He also highlighted the importance of open and distance learning in bridging the gap in university access across the country, especially for individuals who cannot attend traditional institutions
NOUN Graduates 24,575 Students at Convocation
At the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof Uduma Oji Uduma, announced that a total of 24,575 students graduated across different academic levels
Breakdown of Graduates
The breakdown includes:
- 17,474 undergraduate degrees
- 1,788 postgraduate diplomas
- 5,282 master’s degrees
- 31 doctoral degrees
Among undergraduate students, 57 graduated with First Class honors while thousands earned Second Class Upper and Lower degrees, reflecting strong academic performance across the board
Recognition of Resilience and Inclusiveness
The Vice Chancellor praised the graduates for their resilience, noting that many balanced education with work, family, and other responsibilities
He also highlighted the inclusion of inmates from correctional center, describing it as evidence of the transformative power of education According to him, NOUN continues to provide opportunities for diverse groups, including professionals, security personnel, and entrepreneurs
Call for Stronger Support and Policy Inclusion
The Chancellor of NOUN, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, called on the government to increase funding for the institution He stressed that improved infrastructure and digital capacity are essential for sustaining quality education
He also urged authorities to remove restrictions preventing qualified from participating in NYSC, insisting that all graduates deserve equal opportunities regardless of their mode of study
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