The Association of Nigerian University Registrars (ARNU) has convened registrars from universities across the country for a week-long workshop aimed at charting a new course for Nigeria’s higher education system amid rapid technological changes.

The six-day programme, scheduled for July 6 to 11 at the headquarters of the National Universities Commission in Abuja, will also feature ARNU’s 79th Business Meeting, where members are expected to deliberate on university governance, institutional reforms and sustainable development.

The workshop is themed, “Nigerian Universities in the Era of Technological Transformation: Challenges, Opportunities, and Pathways to Sustainable Growth.”

A statement signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the association, Atinuke Oguntunde, said the theme reflects the urgent need for Nigerian universities to embrace technological innovation, improve operational efficiency and position themselves for global competitiveness.

“The theme underscores the need for Nigerian universities to adapt to rapid technological changes while leveraging emerging opportunities for institutional growth, efficiency and global competitiveness,” Oguntunde.

Participants are expected to examine critical issues shaping the future of university administration, including funding and institutional autonomy, data protection, leadership in university management and performance systems for sustainable growth.

Specifically, discussions will focus on “Nigerian University System in the 21st Century: The Paradox of Funding and Autonomy,” “Nigerian Universities as Catalysts to the Success of the National Data Protection Programme: Challenges, Expectations, and Prospects,” “Managing Nigerian Universities: Perspectives from the Seat of a Vice-Chancellor,” and “Advancing Performance Systems for Sustainable Growth in Nigeria’s Ivory Towers: A Paradigm Shift to a New Era.”

According to the statement, the event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions and technical sessions led by prominent academics and policymakers, including Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, Mohammed Musa Kida, Olayemi Akinwumi, Vincent Olatunji and Florence Oluchi Sunny Ibeh.

ARNU said the 79th Business Meeting would enable members to review the association’s activities, adopt key resolutions and set strategic priorities for strengthening university administration across the country.

“The event reflects ARNU’s commitment to strengthening university administration and enhancing institutional capacity for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s higher education sector,” the statement added.