Babcock University's Open and Distance Learning Centre Holds Maiden Graduation

The Babcock University Open and Distance and e-Learning Centre (BUCODeL) has held its maiden graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the university's commitment to providing accessible education to a wider audience. 

Of the 42 Accounting and 12 MBA graduates from Centre, Oluseyi Ogunseitan and Rukiyat Sulaimon emerged as overall best students in Accounting and MBA, respectively during the 23rd Convocation ceremony held on Sunday on the university's main campus at Ilishan-Remo in Ogun State 

 This feat earned both of them a commendation letter and the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Naira from Edutech as prize money from the Centre and its partner, Edutech, respectively for their efforts. 

The Deputy Executive Secretary, Mr. Chris Maiyaki, commended BUCODeL for its innovative approach to digital learning, saying it reflects best practices in Nigeria's higher education system. 

He noted that the centre's Learning Management System (LMS) and strategic engagement of learners through mentorship and analytics are exemplary.

In his keynote address, Mr. Maiyaki emphasized the need for continued focus on making digital learning inclusive and affordable to bridge the digital divide. 

He called for a functional digital education policy to lead Nigeria into a digital future, highlighting the opportunities provided by digital learning in implementing the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the UN SDG 4 on quality education.

The President/Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Ademola Tayo, noted that Africa's future depends on its ability to educate not just the young but also adults outside formal education. 

He emphasized the importance of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in scaling learning across urban and rural areas, enabling countries to accelerate human capital development.

The Director of BUCODeL, Professor Mobolanle Sotunsa, said the centre has grown from 17 students in 2021 to 446 students studying various programs, including Accounting, Computer Science, and MBA. 

She noted that the centre is currently developing four additional programs and faces challenges such as limited funding for technological infrastructure and content development.

Professor Sotunsa urged the graduands to "go forth and lead, using their knowledge, values, and faith to light paths for others." 

She encouraged them to make a positive impact and transform their communities.

Pix:Right to Left: Prof Folorunso Akande, Prof Mobolanle Sotunsa, Prof Philemon Amanze, Mr Chris Maiyaki, Prof Ademola Tayo, Prof Gbenga Idowu at the BUCODEL maiden graduation summit at Babcock University.