NBTE Team Commends Gboko Polytechnic's Readiness During ODFEL Accreditation Inspection

A delegation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), led by Dr. Aliyu Hassan, has conducted a resource inspection and accreditation visit to Gboko Polytechnic, Gboko, as part of the process for approving the institution's Open, Distance and Flexible E-Learning (ODFEL) programmes.

The delegation was received by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Engr. Hyacinth Abanyam, alongside the Director of the Directorate of Open, Distance and Flexible E-Learning, Dr. S. T. Atindiga, principal officers, management staff, and members of the institution's academic community.

Addressing stakeholders during the visit, Dr. Hassan highlighted the evolution of Open, Distance and Flexible E-Learning in Nigeria. He reflected on the early stages of the initiative, the challenges encountered during its implementation, and the various measures adopted by NBTE to strengthen the programme and expand access to quality education through technology.

The team leader noted that the inspection was aimed at evaluating the institution's preparedness to deliver ODFEL programmes effectively. According to him, the exercise focused on assessing available infrastructure, technological facilities, human resources, and administrative structures necessary for successful programme implementation.

He further emphasized the growing importance of technology-driven education in enhancing access to learning opportunities and improving educational outcomes across the country.

In his remarks, the Rector, Engr. Hyacinth Abanyam, expressed appreciation to the NBTE delegation for the visit and commended the Board's efforts in advancing innovative learning models within Nigeria's tertiary education sector.

He reaffirmed the Polytechnic's commitment to academic excellence and innovation, stating that the institution has taken deliberate steps to align its educational delivery systems with modern global standards. He also expressed confidence in the institution's readiness to successfully implement ODFEL programmes.

As part of the accreditation exercise, the Director of ODFEL, Dr. S. T. Atindiga, guided the visiting team through various facilities within the Polytechnic, including ICT centres, lecture studios, administrative offices, and other infrastructure established to support flexible and distance learning.

Following the inspection, the NBTE team expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness demonstrated by the institution. The delegation commended the Polytechnic's efforts in developing the necessary facilities and structures required for effective ODFEL programme delivery.

The visit also included an interactive session with members of the academic staff, where discussions centered on curriculum implementation, student engagement strategies, and the integration of technology into teaching and learning.

The accreditation exercise is expected to continue with further assessments as the institution progresses toward securing approval for its Open, Distance and Flexible E-Learning programmes.