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As part of efforts towards improving access to quality education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) on Wednesday May 24, 2017 approved the implementation of Open Distance and Flexible Learning (ODFL) for 12 programs including Science and Laboratory Technology, Computer Technology, Statistics, Accountancy and Quantity Survey in 25 polytechnics across Nigeria.
Dr. Masa’udu Adamu Kazaure mni, Executive Secretary of the NBTE, made this disclosure at a meeting of rectors and the ODFL Steering Team on Flexible Skills Development (FSD)/Tertiary Institutions E-Learning Resource (TIER) at the NBTE Headquarters in Kaduna.
Pointing out that polytechnics are hard pressed to meet the demands of the ever growing population of youths seeking access to qualitative technical education, the NBTE Executive Secretary emphasized the need to reinforce traditional education with innovative methods. “The ODFL mode of learning has the potentials of overcoming barriers and constraints that may prevent learners from accessing and succeeding in quality and lifelong education,” he said. “As Nigeria races towards the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Federal government of Nigeria has declared total support for e-learning and canvassed leveraging on globalization, partnerships and technology through innovative technologies to increase access.”
NBTE’s commitment to flexible learning was further reinforced by the Director of NBTE Centre of Excellence and Chairman, National ODFL Committee, Dr. (Mrs.) Amina Idris, who recounted efforts of the Board such as development of the National E-Leaning Strategic Plan for the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions together with the National Open Distance and Flexible Learning Policy and Procedure Guidelines in TVET institutions – currently undergoing approval – for the first time in the Nigerian educational sector.
The TIER project promoted by M8 Global KNOW Network is supported by a consortium of financial institutions, telecom companies and international development partners. According to the TIER Consortium partners Head of Project and Partnership, Dr. Lovedays Egbedion, all TIER partner institutions benefit from extramural financing and resource collaborations for ICT and technological services, policy and administrative frameworks, entrepreneurship and vocational skills training and educational support schemes.
