NOUN Partners with Digital Bridge Institute to Launch Five National Innovation Diploma Programmes

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) have solidified a strategic partnership to offer five cutting-edge National Innovation Diploma (NID) programmes aimed at equipping students with advanced technological skills.

The five NID programmes include:

1. Computer Software Engineering
2. Computer Hardware Engineering
3. Network Systems and Security
4. Multimedia Technology
5. Telecommunication Engineering Technology

This collaboration was formalized during a courtesy visit to NOUN’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, by DBI officials on October 17, 2024, at the NOUN headquarters in Abuja. The partnership will focus on providing these diploma programmes through a blended learning approach, combining online and face-to-face instruction across NOUN’s and DBI’s facilities.

According to a memo signed by Mr. Adefemi Oyedipe, Deputy Registrar of the Vice-Chancellor’s office, the collaboration is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at preparing students for the digital economy. The programmes will integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, catering to the growing demand for professionals in the fields of computer engineering, telecommunications, and network security.

To ensure smooth implementation, a committee has been established to oversee the development of the programme frameworks, including the Operational Procedures Plan (OPP) and the Development Procedures Plan (DPP). The committee, chaired by NOUN’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Technology, Innovation, and Research (TIR), Prof. Godwin Akper, includes key members such as Prof. Gregory Okagbare, Director of DAP; Prof. Grace Jokthan, Director of ACETEL; Dr. Greg Onwodi, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science; and the NOUN Registrar.

Prof. Peters expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that it will open new pathways for students to gain relevant skills in emerging digital technologies. He highlighted that the partnership with DBI aligns with NOUN’s mission to provide flexible, accessible, and industry-relevant education to a broader audience.

The Digital Bridge Institute, known for its focus on technology training and innovation, brings its technical expertise and resources to the partnership. DBI representatives shared their enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to impact Nigeria’s ICT sector by producing a new generation of highly skilled professionals.

The launch of these diploma programmes is expected to significantly enhance the capacity of students to compete in both the local and global technology job markets