NUC approves LASU distance learning and research institute

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted approval of the establishment of the Lagos State University’s (LASU) Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute (ODLRI). With the approval of the Institute,  the sale of forms is expected to commence soon.

This is according to the Coordinator, Centre for Information, Press and Public Relations at LASU, Ademola Adekoya in a press release sent to EduCeleb.com on Monday.

Mr Adekoya stated that the approval materialised after a recent visit by the Nigerian universities’ regulatory body to assess the facilities of the Institute at the Main Campus of the University in Ojo.

He noted that the ODLRI was established by the Professor Olanrewaju Adigun Fagbohun-led administration to replace the now rested LASU External System (LASUES) and provide opportunity for millions of knowledge seekers who are desirous of pursuing their first degrees in the University, but are unable to gain admission for the regular programmes.

EduCeleb.com recalls that the LASU External System was phased out in March, 2017 over concerns about “quality assurance” issues raised by the NUC. The university had also ensured that all remaining students in the 14 campuses of the External System got cleared of their backlog of outstanding results.

Information made available indicated that the ODLRI Board is headed by renowned Academic and Former Executive Secretary, NUC, Distinguished Professor Peter Okebukola.

Mr Adekoya noted that the ODLRI would be commencing operations with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration as the university management had assured the NUC leadership of its readiness to ensure the successful take off of the institute’s programmes.

“The Vice Chancellor, Professor Fagbohun, while receiving the NUC team on their assessment visit, had assured the Executive Secretary, NUC, Professor Abubakar Rasheed that LASU-ODLRI will be the gold standard in the delivery of quality University education in Africa through the Open and Distance Learning delivery platform. The approved take-off programme is the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration,” he revealed.

Features of LASU-ODLRI

Adekoya said the LASU-ODLRI has several unique features as its course contents are pitched above NUC minimum standards with slant on 21-Century skills especially critical thinking, teamwork, entrepreneurship and digital literacy.

“It will be delivered on a learner-friendly, easy-to-navigate e-learning platform with 24-hour learner support. It will apply global best practices in Open and Distance learning delivery. Another distinguishing feature is that it will embed research and development into all operations.

“All course materials are pilot tested before full diffusion. There are no imported courseware as all materials are proudly homegrown in LASU. It will blend 30% on-campus instruction with 70% instruction in a technology-enabled virtual learning environment,” he added.