NUC Pre-Validation Team Visits Ajayi Crowther University for ODeL Programme Assessment
Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, recently 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 visit marks a crucial milestone in the institution’s efforts to broaden access to higher education through technology-driven learning platforms and positions ACU to join the growing list of Nigerian universities embracing distance learning as a means of democratising access to quality tertiary education across the country.
Welcoming the team on the first day, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, expressed delight at hosting the NUC officials and described their presence as both timely and significant. She noted that the world is rapidly evolving, with technological advancement reshaping how education is delivered and accessed, making distance learning a necessary alternative to conventional classroom education.
Prof. Oduwole further highlighted that Ajayi Crowther University is well-prepared for the accreditation exercise, stating that the institution’s Open Distance and e-Learning Centre is staffed with experienced and competent personnel dedicated 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 team, 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 institution for its proactive approach in adopting distance learning and e-learning platforms to meet the growing 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 line with global best practices. She noted that the ODeL programme plays a critical role in widening access to education, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances to pursue academic advancement.
Highlighting the societal impact of the initiative, she remarked that open distance and e-learning “gives hope to the hopeless,” as it provides opportunities for those who may be unable to participate in traditional learning systems due to financial, geographical, or personal constraints.
Speaking at the close of the two-day visit, Dr. Morebise expressed gratitude to the university for the warm reception extended to the visiting team. She commended the ACU Open Distance and e-Learning unit, as well as the entire staff, for their dedication and collective efforts in advancing the programme. She described the ongoing expansion of the university as a positive development that would further enhance access to quality education.
In her closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole expressed appreciation to the NUC team for their support, professionalism, and dedication throughout the accreditation process. She assured the visiting team of the institution’s commitment to addressing all observations raised during the exercise.
Prof. Oduwole acknowledged the importance of the exercise in maintaining academic standards and ensuring quality assurance in 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 visit forms part of the NUC’s mandate to ensure the orderly development and quality delivery of university education in Nigeria. The successful 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 the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Afolake Olanbiwonninu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo; Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun; Bursar, Dr. Ayodele Olusanwo; and University Librarian, Prof. Bosede Ajiboye. Others included the Director of ACU Distance Learning Centre, Prof. Ronke Ogunmakin; Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Bolanle Ibojo; Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Prof. Ayobami Ayeni; Director of Works and Services, Engr. Dr. Oluwole Olaniyi and other ACU Distance Learning Team.
The NUC Pre-Validation team was led by Dr. Funmilayo Morebise, Director of Open Distance and e-Learning, NUC, Abuja. Other team members were Prof. Clement Alawa from the University of Abuja; Prof. Sampson Ojo from the University of Ibadan; and Mr. Patrick Ewah also of the National Universities Commission, Abuja.
