NUC chief urges university staff to embrace digital skills for future success

The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), has urged university administrative staff across Nigeria to enhance their digital skills in order to thrive in an increasingly virtual learning environment.

Maiyaki delivered this message during the inaugural Miva Open University Public Lecture held in Abuja, where he emphasized the urgent need for full digital transformation within higher education institutions.

Speaking on the theme “The Changing Role of University Administrators in an Open Distance Learning (ODL) Setting,” Maiyaki stressed that mere ICT literacy is no longer sufficient. He highlighted the necessity for administrative staff, ranging from vice-chancellors to both academic and non-academic personnel, to acquire advanced skills in computer software tailored for virtual learning contexts.

“The administrative staff must prepare for full digital transformation as this is critical for the future of education in Nigeria,” he stated.

He further elaborated that continuous training and exposure to modern techniques and best practices are essential for staff to keep pace with the expanding landscape of open distance learning.

Maiyaki pointed out that proficiency in relevant computer software is crucial for navigating the virtual learning environment and urged staff to eliminate counterproductive administrative bottlenecks that could hinder institutional progress.

“Your role is not to obstruct the organization’s success, but to act as an integral stakeholder in your daily decisions, ensuring that your university thrives and outlives its founding fathers,” he remarked.

The NUC boss also highlighted the importance of aggressive sensitization campaigns to dispel the misconception that degrees obtained through traditional and ODL modes of education are equivalent.

“There will be no university if there are no students, therefore, it is vital for administrative staff to organize student-centered activities,” Maiyaki advised.

Earlier in the event, Prof. Tayo Arologun, Vice Chancellor of Miva Open University, echoed the significance of the topic, stating that the landscape of higher education is evolving rapidly, with open distance learning at the forefront of this transformation.

“The impact of ODL on Nigeria’s economic development and social progress cannot be overstated,” Arologun said.