Miva varsity unveils AI degree programme at maiden convocation

The Federal Government and the National Universities Commission (NUC) have stressed the need for Nigerian universities to expand access and align programmes with workforce needs as demand for higher education continues to outstrip capacity.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who spoke at Miva Open University’s maiden convocation in Lagos, said reforms under the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative focused on science education, technical and vocational training, digital transformation, girl-child education, as well as reducing the number of out-of-school children.

He noted that institutions using technology to deliver learning would be central to addressing access gaps.

Also, representative of the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Dr Ayoteju Ogun, said open and distance learning remains critical to meeting demand, while maintaining quality standards.

She added that NUC expects universities to explore models that combine innovation with academic rigour.

Ogun further said that open learning should no longer be viewed as a secondary option for those unable to access conventional institutions, and that democratising education does not mean lowering standards, but creating systems capable of expanding opportunity while maintaining excellence.

Miva Open University, however, reaffirmed the growing role of technology-driven education in expanding access to quality learning in Nigeria as it unveiled new academic and innovation initiatives, including a degree programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The institution also announced plans to expand physical learning centres and establish robotics and drone laboratories aimed at strengthening practical and future-focused education across the country.

The Chancellor of the university, Sim Shagaya, said the institution was established to challenge long-held assumptions that quality higher education must be tied to physical classrooms or limited by geography.

According to him, the university’s mission is centred on increasing access while maintaining academic standards and preparing graduates for a rapidly changing global economy.

Shagaya said the institution does not admit numbers but individuals with unique realities and aspirations, stressing that education should adapt to the circumstances of learners rather than forcing learners to abandon their responsibilities.

In his keynote address, Muhammadu Sanusi described open and distance learning as a significant instrument for educational inclusion and social transformation.

He said quality education should not be defined by physical structures but by academic rigour, effective learning systems and measurable outcomes.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, representing Lagos State Governor, described the convocation as a validation of technology-driven learning and a reflection of how innovation is reshaping higher education.