The Babcock University Centre for Open, Distance and e-Learning (BUCODeL) has celebrated a historic milestone with the graduation of its pioneer students, marking a bold leap in Nigeria’s journey toward inclusive and tech-driven education.
At the maiden convocation ceremony held recently, 54 graduates — comprising 42 Accounting and 12 MBA students — were formally conferred with their degrees in a vibrant academic gathering that showcased the promise of digital education in bridging Nigeria’s learning gaps.
Top honours went to Oluseyi Ogunseitan (Accounting) and Rukiyat Sulaimon (MBA), who emerged as the best graduating students in their respective programmes.
In recognition of their academic excellence, both received commendation letters and cash awards of ₦300,000 each, jointly sponsored by BUCODeL and its technical partner, Edutech.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr. Chris Maiyaki, lauded BUCODeL’s robust use of technology and learner engagement tools, describing the centre as a model for other institutions embracing digital transformation.
“BUCODeL is setting the pace with its efficient Learning Management System and mentoring model. This approach not only aligns with global best practices but also demonstrates Nigeria’s growing capacity for home-grown digital learning solutions,” Maiyaki said.
He further called for a nationally coordinated digital education policy that would enhance access and affordability, particularly for underserved communities, noting that open learning platforms are vital to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Babcock University’s President/Vice Chancellor, Professor Ademola Tayo, emphasized that the future of education in Africa lies in flexible learning models that reach beyond traditional classrooms.
“Open and Distance Learning is not just a necessity but a strategic imperative for national growth. We must continue to open learning pathways for both young learners and adults outside formal systems, especially in rural and underserved regions,” he stated.
In her remarks, BUCODeL’s Director, Professor Mobolanle Sotunsa, reflected on the centre’s remarkable growth from just 17 pioneer students in 2021 to 446 learners across programmes such as Accounting, Computer Science, and Business Administration.
She revealed that four additional programmes are in development, even as the centre grapples with infrastructural and funding constraints.
“Despite these challenges, we remain committed to our vision of transforming lives through education. To our graduates, I say: go forth and lead. Use your knowledge, values, and faith to illuminate the world around you,” she charged.
The event also served as a rallying point for stakeholders in higher education, who reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach and impact of digital education in Nigeria.
As BUCODeL continues to grow, its success signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s educational landscape—one defined by access, flexibility, and innovation.
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