NBTE approves implementation of open distance and flexible learning for 25 polytechnics

The National Body for Technical Education, NBTE, has approved the implementation of Open Distance and Flexible Learning, ODFL, for 25 out of 556 polytechnics under it.

Adamu Kazaure, Executive Secretary of the NBTE, gave the approval on Wednesday at a meeting of rectors and the ODFL steering team on flexible skills development/tertiary institutions e-learning resource at the NBTE headquarters in Kaduna.

Twelve programmes were slated for approval and include; science and laboratory technology, computer technology, statistics, accountancy and quantity survey, among others.

Pointing out that polytechnics are hard pressed to meet the demands of the ever growing population of youth seeking access to qualitative technical education, the NBTE official emphasised 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.

According to Mr. Kazaure, the approval is part of the board’s efforts towards improving access to quality education.

“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, 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 an official, 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.

Open Distance learning, ODL, is a general term for the use of telecommunication to provide or enhance learning. Around the world, the academic community is discovering and exploring the Internet, teleconferencing, and related means to achieve an extended classroom or learning experience.

ODL was first introduced to the Nigerian education system when the National Open University was initially established in 1983.