Stakeholders in the education sector have emphasised the need for a robust student information management system and greater digital transformation.
Speaking at the 2024 International Week and 17th Research Conference organised by the University of Lagos (UNILAG), themed: ‘Inclusive digital transformation and the university promise.’ they reviewed the progress so far made, and future aspirations for digital transformation within their institutions.
The Vice Chancellor, UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, reflected on the institution’s journey towards digital transformation in the last 57 years, noting that significant infrastructure improvements, including high-speed internet capabilities of up to 10 gigabytes per second, had been established across the institution’s three campuses.
However, Ogunsola noted that despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly electricity issues impacting equipment and operations.
She said: “The university has implemented a robust student information management system to streamline record-keeping, but ongoing reliance on paper records complicates processes for alumni, especially concerning increased demand for transcripts driven by the Japa syndrome, where many seek education and opportunities abroad.”
The VC further spoke on the institution’s ongoing efforts to digitise administrative processes, making the university more sustainable and inclusive, particularly for students with disabilities.
Ogunsola noted that despite resource limitations and brain drain, Nigerian universities are making significant strides in their digital transformation efforts.
The First Secretary of European Union’s (EU) Commission in Nigeria, Prof. Leila Mathews, stressed the EU’s support for Nigerian higher education through scholarships, research grants, and collaborative partnerships, particularly in the digital innovation sector.
Speaking on the success of the Erasmus programme, she noted its significant role in fostering a shared European culture and youth engagement.
The acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Dr Chris Maiyaki, addressed the pressing need for digital integration in higher education.
He stressed the transformative power of technology in education, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He described the theme of the event as apt, as the institution led the charge towards the automation and digital delivery of education across Nigeria.
Maiyaki outlined the commission’s historical commitment to electronic networking and establishment of various Information and Communication Technology (ICT) policies, including guidelines for e-learning and open educational resources.
He emphasised the agency’s role as a regulatory body in facilitating digital advancements, enabling foreign investment in Nigerian universities, and ensuring quality standards in education delivery.
Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Prof. Olumuyiwa Odusanya, restated the institution’s commitment to digital transformation as a strategic approach to improving systems and efficiency.
Odusanya added that the institutionhas continued to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, while seeking to retain its brightest students and faculty amid challenging societal conditions.
He revealed the university’s advancements in high-speed internet access, which supported research and communication.
“We are also expanding the digitalisation of operations, including transcripts and bursary functions, eliminating the need for students to visit banks for payments. The introduction of an ICT initiative focused on computer science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. This initiative will enable seamless operations in teaching and research, ensuring all communications are electronic whether through WhatsApp or email,” he said.
When asked about the challenges faced during this transformation, he identified funding and access to data.
“Despite these challenges, there are vast opportunities available, particularly in harnessing the energy of our youth to create local content and innovative applications that address Nigeria’s pressing problems,” he stated.
Vice-Chancellor, Pan Atlantic University, Prof. Enase Okonedo, explained that the university initially established a local platform for student management and essential services, but the onset of COVID-19 accelerated the need to migrate these systems to the cloud for better access.
Looking ahead, she expressed hope for increased support for private universities from initiatives like Tertiary Education Fund (TETFund), which had historically supported public institutions.
Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, explained the board’s significant role in digitising Nigeria’s education system, saying the body conducts entry examinations for approximately two million candidates, which he said is unmatched globally.
Oloyede explained that JAMB employed advanced ICT solutions for candidates registration and examination processes, enhancing security and accuracy.
He highlighted the board’s Central Admission Processing System (CAPS), which ensured fair treatment and equity in admissions across 1,240 institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Oloyede commended the University of Lagos for its leadership in promoting digital transformation, stating that the collaboration between JAMB and the institution enhanced the overall educational experience for students.
Mr Joseph Odoh, who represented the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Sonny Echono, emphasised the importance of enhancing digital inclusion, standardisation, and access to teaching, learning, and research.
Odoh highlighted the agency’s shift from traditional infrastructure provision to utilising ICT as a key enabler in education, especially in light of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
