NBTE approves open distance and flexible learning in 25 polytechnics

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has approved the implementation of open distance and flexible learning (ODFL) for 12 programs in 25 polytechnics across Nigeria.

Adamu Kazaure, executive secretary of the NBTE, made the disclosure on Wednesday at a meeting of rectors and the ODFL steering team on flexible skills development/tertiary institutions e-learning resource at the NBTE headquarters in Kaduna.

The approved programmes include science and laboratory technology, computer technology, statistics, accountancy and quantity survey, among others.

According to Kazaure, the approval is part of the board’s efforts towards improving access to quality education.

He also emphasised the need to reinforce traditional education with innovative methods, noting that polytechnics are hard-pressed to meet the demands of the ever-growing population of youths seeking access to qualitative technical education.

“The ODFL mode of learning has the potentials of overcoming barriers and constraints that may prevent learners from accessing and succeeding in quality and lifelong education,” Kazaure said.

“As Nigeria races towards the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Federal government of Nigeria has declared total support for e-learning and canvassed leveraging on globalization, partnerships and technology through innovative technologies to increase access.”

NBTE’s commitment to flexible learning was further reinforced by  Amina Idris, director of NBTE centre of excellence, and chairman, national ODFL committee.

Idris recounted efforts of the board such as development of the national e-learning strategic plan for the technical vocational education and training (TVET) institutions together with the National ODFL policy and procedure guidelines in TVET institutions – currently undergoing approval – for the first time in the Nigerian educational sector.

The TIER project promoted by M8 Global KNOW network is supported by a consortium of financial institutions, telecom companies and international development partners.

According to Lovedays Egbedion, TIER consortium partners head of project and partnership, all TIER partner institutions benefit from extramural financing and resource collaborations for ICT and technological services, policy and administrative frameworks, entrepreneurship and vocational skills training and educational support schemes.