Governor Alex Otti has called on Nigerians to fully embrace digital and distance education, describing it as the inevitable future of learning in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The Governor made the call on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the (NOUN), led by its Vice Chancellor, , at Government House, Umuahia.
Speaking during the meeting, Otti commended NOUN for pioneering virtual learning in Nigeria long before it became a global norm. He noted that advancements in technology have redefined communication and education, making distance learning platforms indispensable.
“It is interesting that NOUN pioneered this effort decades ago when the world had not gone virtual. Today, we hold meetings across continents using platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. That is what learning has become distance, open, and virtual. We have no choice but to embrace it,” the Governor said.
In a major boost for educational access in Abia State, Governor Otti approved the establishment of a NOUN study centre in Aba, describing the project as both necessary and timely. He directed the General Manager of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) to immediately identify a temporary location to kick-start operations while plans for a permanent site are developed.
“On the request for a study centre in Aba, that is a no-brainer. It has to be done. Let’s find a temporary place for them to begin while we work towards a long-term facility,” Otti stated.
The Governor also directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme, to conduct a feasibility study on upgrading the existing NOUN study centre in Umuahia, in response to the institution’s request for improved infrastructure.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education, Otti disclosed that the state has consistently allocated about 20 percent of its annual budget to the sector over the past three years. He further revealed plans to commission three smart schools within the month as part of efforts to modernize the state’s education system.
Earlier, Professor Uduma explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Abia State Government, particularly in expanding access to open and distance learning. He noted that NOUN currently operates over 120 study centres nationwide, with only eight located in the South-East region.
He appealed to the state government to support the establishment of a study centre in Aba to widen educational opportunities for residents, while also seeking assistance in upgrading the Umuahia facility.
The Vice Chancellor commended Governor Otti’s developmental strides, describing his administration as people-oriented and impactful.
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme, alongside other top government officials.
