The Open and Distance Learning Programme of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA was formally flagged off on Friday 12th of April, 2024, with the Virtual Orientation for pioneer students enrolled for the B.Sc. Computer Science for the 2023/2024 Academic session.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, who presided at the event, described it as epoch-making saying all the participants have become history makers in their own right. She described the formal take off of the Open and Distance Learning Centre of the University as another giant step in the mandate of FUTA at making knowledge and specialized training accessible to as many people as are eligible and willing to choose the University.
She congratulated the pioneer students and referred to them as history makers and leaders of tomorrow. The Vice Chancellor advised that they remain focused and determined at attaining success in their various academic pursuit. She told them that challenges will always rear its ugly head but with determination, all problems can be overcome. Professor Oladiji reiterated that FUTA is known for excellence and there will not be any letting down of guards with the ODLC program. She said the only difference in the degree programme and the physical degree programs is that ODCL lecturers would be more virtual than physical.
Professor Oladiji also acknowledged the efforts of her predecessors on the journey that culminated in the actualization of the Centre. She thanked the Principal Officers of the University and the NUC team who worked tirelessly to take the Centre to where it is now. She said the Director of the Centre, Professor Felix Alao and his team did a yeoman’s job to make the take off a reality.
In his remark, the Director, ODLC, Professor Felix Alao, appreciated God for making it possible to witness the maiden virtual orientation ceremony for the first set of e-Learners for the BSc Computer Science Program under the aegis of the ODLC programme. He congratulated and welcomed the Learners to FUTA while reiterating that the Center has begun full commencement of activities with the approval of the National Universities Commission.
He said the uniqueness of FUTA ODLC include provision of access to quality education and equity in educational opportunities for those who are working class individuals seeking University admission. He said the FUTA ODCL core mandate is to replicate the NUC approved undergraduate programs and make them available for students who might not have the opportunity and time to undertake full time studies.
The Registrar, Mr. Charles Adeleye, facilitators and E-Tutors of the Centre including the Associate Directors, Professor Mobalaji Stephen, Dr Emmanuel Ibam and Mr. Olusola Adebowale, ODCL expert, Dr Ibrahim Makinde and Admin Officer, Ifeoluwa Olagoroye participated in the virtual orientation and formal flag off of the Centre.
