Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for restoration of Law programmes, improved student enrolment, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the National Open University (NOUN) as parts of reforms needed in its academic system.
Obasanjo who emphasized the need for academic advancement at NOUN through innovation and technology, urged the leadership of the novel university to make modernisation and increased access to education matters of priorities.
The elder statesman spoke at the weekend when he received the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Uduma Orji Uduma, and his management team in Abeokuta, Ogun State, shortly after the guests had formally introduced themselves at his residence.
However, while responding to the ex – President, immediate-past Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi A. Peters, said the university has taken significant steps towards integrating artificial intelligence into its academic content, a development he added, has earned NOUN several recognitions from international educational bodies.
He revealed that the university currently has about 300,000 registered students, with approximately 190,000 actively engaged.
According to him, the gap beteeen registeted students and active engagement reflects varying levels of participation.
He expressed confidence in the leadership of the new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Uduma, saying he is committed to sustaining innovation and advancing institutional development.
In his remarks, Professor Uduma pledged to prioritise the revival of the Law programme and strengthen ongoing reforms.
He also thanked Obasanjo for his continued support and contributions to the growth of the institution.
The team also visited the Abeokuta Study Centre of the university, and was received by the Centre Director, Oyekunle Adegboyega, who conducted members on a tour of the facility’s offices.
