NUC Pre-Validation Team Visits Ajayi Crowther University to Assess ODeL Programme

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, hosted a Pre-Validation Assessment delegation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) on Wednesday, July 29, and Thursday, July 30, 2026, for the assessment of its Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) programme.

The two-day Pre-Validation Assessment visit marks an important milestone in the University's efforts to expand access to higher education through technology-driven learning platforms. The exercise also positions ACU to join the growing number of Nigerian universities adopting distance learning as a means of broadening access to quality tertiary education across the country.

Welcoming the NUC team on the first day of the visit, the Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, expressed delight at hosting the officials and described their visit as timely and significant.

She noted that the world is rapidly evolving, with technological advancements transforming the ways education is delivered and accessed. According to her, these developments have made distance learning an increasingly necessary alternative to conventional classroom-based education.

Professor Oduwole further stated that Ajayi Crowther University is well-prepared for the accreditation exercise, noting that the University's Open Distance and e-Learning Centre is staffed by experienced and competent personnel committed to delivering quality education.

She emphasised that the programme enjoys the full backing and support of the entire University community.

Speaking on behalf of the NUC delegation, the Director of Open Distance and e-Learning, Dr. Funmilayo Morebise, commended the ACU Management for what she described as a "commendable and forward-looking initiative."

She praised the University for its proactive approach to adopting distance learning and e-learning platforms to meet the increasing demand for accessible education.

Dr. Morebise explained that one of the core mandates of the National Universities Commission is to ensure the orderly development of universities in Nigeria, particularly in accordance with global best practices.

She noted that ODeL programmes play a critical role in widening access to education by enabling people from diverse backgrounds and circumstances to pursue academic advancement.

Highlighting the societal impact of the initiative, Dr. Morebise said open distance and e-learning "gives hope to the hopeless" by creating opportunities for individuals who may be unable to participate in traditional learning systems due to financial, geographical or personal constraints.

At the conclusion of the two-day visit, Dr. Morebise expressed appreciation to the University for the warm reception extended to the visiting team.

She commended the ACU Open Distance and e-Learning unit and the entire staff for their dedication and collective efforts toward advancing the programme. She also described the ongoing expansion of the University as a positive development that would further enhance access to quality education.

In her closing remarks, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole thanked the NUC team for its support, professionalism and dedication throughout the accreditation process.

The Vice-Chancellor assured the delegation that the institution would address all observations raised during the exercise.

Professor Oduwole acknowledged the importance of the assessment in maintaining academic standards and ensuring quality assurance within the university system.

She further assured the team that all issues identified during the visit would be promptly addressed, emphasising that the University Management is committed to full compliance with NUC standards without delay.

The Pre-Validation Assessment visit forms part of the National Universities Commission's mandate to ensure the orderly development and quality delivery of university education in Nigeria.

The successful completion of the exercise is expected to position Ajayi Crowther University among Nigerian institutions leveraging technology-driven learning platforms to broaden access to higher education.

Present at the meeting were:

• Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Afolake Olanbiwonninu.
• Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Olukayode Binuyo.
• Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun.
• Bursar, Dr. Ayodele Olusanwo.
• University Librarian, Professor Bosede Ajiboye.
• Director of ACU Distance Learning Centre, Professor Ronke Ogunmakin.
• Director of Academic Planning, Professor Bolanle Ibojo.
• Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Professor Ayobami Ayeni.
• Director of Works and Services, Engr. Dr. Oluwole Olaniyi.
• Other members of the ACU Distance Learning Team.

The NUC Pre-Validation Assessment team was led by Dr. Funmilayo Morebise, Director of Open Distance and e-Learning, NUC, Abuja.

Other members of the team were:

• Professor Clement Alawa, University of Abuja.
• Professor Sampson Ojo, University of Ibadan.
• Mr. Patrick Ewah, National Universities Commission, Abuja.