The Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, delivers his address on the matriculation ceremony on Wednesday
By Felix Khanoba
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has formally welcomed 25,342 new students into its academic community, marking the beginning of their studies across nine faculties in the institution.
Speaking during the matriculation ceremony on Wednesday, NOUN Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters, charged the new students to embrace academic integrity, hard work, and excellence throughout their studies.
A statement issued by the university’s Director of Media and Publicity, Ibrahim Sheme, revealed that 18,698 of the matriculated students are enrolled in undergraduate programmes, while 6,564 have been admitted into various postgraduate courses, including doctoral studies.
Professor Peters encouraged the new intakes to stay focused, cultivate meaningful relationships, and steer clear of activities that could derail their academic progress.
He said: “Your journey at NOUN is not just about earning a degree, it is about transforming yourself into well-rounded, innovative and resourceful individuals.
“Take full advantage of the flexible learning opportunities to pursue your academic and personal goals. Remember, the discipline and resilience you develop here will not only serve you during your time at NOUN, but throughout your career and life.”
The Vice-Chancellor also emphasized that the university’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) model holds equal academic value when compared to traditional education methods. He emphasized the achievements of NOUN alumni as evidence of the institution’s academic quality.
“NOUN graduates have excelled in various fields, making significant contributions to their professions and communities,” he said, adding, “Indeed, many of our graduates have risen to prominent positions in government, industry and academia, demonstrating the high-quality education that NOUN provides.”
He elaborated on the advantages of the ODL system, pointing to its adaptability, convenience, and use of technology to enhance learning.
“At NOUN, your classroom is not confined to four walls; instead, it extends to your homes, workplaces or wherever you choose to study. This approach not only gives you flexibility over how you study, it also equips you with the self-discipline, time-management and digital skills that are essential in today’s world,” he said.
Professor Peters urged the students to take full advantage of the university’s digital learning tools, including smartphones and computers, and to actively participate in their academic responsibilities.
He advised them to make consistent use of the Learning Management System (LMS), attend virtual facilitation classes, and stay committed to tasks such as Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs).
“The future of education lies in Open and Distance Learning and you are privileged to be part of this forward-thinking approach to education,” he added.
During the ceremony, the university’s Registrar, Mr. Oladipo A. Ajayi, administered the matriculation oath to the newly admitted students.
