Wale Jagun & Mariam Akinloye
-As Ikorodu Model Centre is commissioned
The Ikorodu community has been charged by the Federal Government on the need to take full ownership of the newly commissioned National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Ikorodu Model Study Centre, by partnering and collaborating with the institution.
His Excellency, Malam Isa Yuguda, CON., the Pro – Chancellor and Chairman of the NOUN Council, gave the charged at the commissioning of the state – of – the -art facility located at Itamaga along the Ijede Road, Ikorodu, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.
While stating that there are over 123 NOUN study centres which cater for the open and distance learning programmes, Malam Yuguda, who was a former Governor of Bauchi State, said that the commissioning of the NOUN newest centre, marks a significant step in collective aspirations to bring give Nigerians quality education.
“It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to commission the Ikorodu Model Study Centre of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
“This occasion marks a significant milestone in our collective quest to further democratise access to quality education across Nigeria, and it also serves as a beacon of hope for many individuals who, for various reasons, have been denied access to conventional educational institutions.
“A study centre like this is not just a physical structure, but a nerve centre of our open and Distance Learning (ODL) system. It serves as a gateway through which our students access the rich resources of the university.
“Here, they interact with our esteemed faculty, engage in peer – to -peer learning and utilize various learning materials that enhance their educational experience. More than just a support faculty, it is a hub of academic and intellectual exchange that will strengthen the bonds of community”.
While stating the impacts of NOUN on the country since its re – introduction, Yuguda said that the Ikorodu centre has the capacity to continue with the tradition and even surpass it, and contribute in no small measure to further development of Ikorodu.
“The Ikorodu Study Centre has the potential to replicate these successes and more. Situated in a rapidly growing region, this centre will serve as a key driver of local development.
“The educational and learning opportunities it offers will equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive job market, while also empowering them to become entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders in various sectors.
“It is my hope that the centre will become a hub for knowledge sharing, not only for our registered students but for the broader community as well. We envision workshops, seminars and vocational training programmes that will benefit both learners and local businesses.
“As the digital economy grows, the Ikorodu Centre could also become a leader in delivering tech -driven learning solutions, positioning the community to harness the power of technology for economic development”, he said.
The NOUN Pro Chancellor charged stakeholders in Ikorodu, to partner and collaborate with the institution by driving enrolment and ensuring safety of the facilities.
“I would like to appeal to the Ikorodu community to, however, take full ownership of this centre, recognizing the immense value it brings to your community.
“Your partnership and collaboration are crucial in driving enrollment, fostering a peaceful learning environment and safeguarding this valuable asset.
“I call on parents, community leaders, and local stakeholders to encourage young and old alike to seize the educational opportunities this centre offers. Let us work together to ensure the security of the infrastructure and the continuity of the programme that will be run here”, Malam Yuguda appealed.
The Ayangbure of Ikorodu, HRM Oba Kabir Shotobi, was full of appreciation for the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, for bringing the distance learning facility to Ikorodu.
“The building (NOUN structure) in Abuja is a standard one, and this is the fourth university we are having in our community and it is now like a university community.
“You have helped us to grow, you have enhanced our commercial activities and you have given us the value for the future of our new generation and those yet to come. You have given us value for them.
“That is what we are talking about, if you educate your child, then, you have given them knowledge to impact the value and human resources that we have in Nigeria. This is what you have demonstrated. I want to thank you for giving us the honour .
“I want to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria that has given the approval for you to go all the way, and those who contributed to the success in ensuring that this place was completed within eight months without foot dragging and complaints to the Ayangburen of Ikorodu to help you beg the Pro Chancellor to raise (more) money for you. That wasn’t there”.
“Ikorodu people will continue to cherish what you have done for us. Thank you and God bless.
Prof. Saheed Ajibade, the Director of the Ikorodu’s NOUN Model Centre, thanked the royal fathers in Ikorodu, especially the Ayangbure of Ikorodu and the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Prof. Michael Ajetunmobi and Hon. David Setonji, among others, for their contributions towards the sustenance of the NOUN in Ikorodu.
There was a tour of the facility by Pro Chancellor of Noun, Malam Yuguda, with other dignitaries, after the commissioning.
Other eminent personalities in attendance were His Royal Majesties, Oba Semiudeen Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Oba Ajibade Bakare Agoro, the Ranodu of Imota, Oba AbdulHakeem Oyebo, the Obateru of Egbin, Oba Bashir Sotonwa, the Skumade of Ipakodo, Sen. Tokunbo Abiru, the Senator representing Lagos East represented by Dr Saheed Ibikunle, Hon. David Setonji, Chief Whip, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Tolani Sule, Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Alhaja Abimbola Jakande, wife of the late former Governor of Lagos State and Pastor (Mrs) Deborah Akindele, wife of the General Overseer, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
