The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) in collaboration with the Regional Training and Research Institute for Open and Distance Learning (RETRIDOL), held a two-day workshop on Technology-Enabled Learning at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) recently. The workshop, attended by 23 senior administrators and faculty from nine conventional Nigerian universities and the National Universities Commission, was aimed at supporting these universities to transition to dual-mode institutions.

Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu of NOUN, RETRIDOL’s host institution, stated that the open and distance learning system has expanded access to education by reaching more learners in Nigeria. He welcomed the expansion of conventional universities to dual-mode institutions.

COL Adviser: Education, Dr. Kirk Perris, said “The enthusiasm among the workshop participants demonstrated the desire and need to network across institutions, and to collectively share in the responsibility to augment learning opportunities across the country.”

The workshop built on previous engagements with RETRIDOL to enhance capacity among universities in transitioning to dual-mode institutions. Participants discussed the opportunities and challenges of operating in this mode, as well as the significance of blended learning and open educational resources to gain efficiencies while enhancing access.