The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has reiterated its commitment to equipping Nigerians with 21st-Century technological skills through innovative training programmes tailored to emerging industries.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, stated this during the virtual flag-off of Course 3 of the Certificate Programme in Electric Vehicle and Auto Diagnostics, organised by the university’s Centre for Human Resource Development (CHRD).
The programme, themed “Driving the Future: Empowering Skills for Electric Mobility and Smart Auto Diagnostics,” was declared open on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Technology, Innovation and Research, Prof. Christine Ofulue.
Prof. Uduma noted that electric mobility and smart auto diagnostics were rapidly emerging as important sectors in Nigeria and across the world, creating opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and technological advancement.
“People are continually looking towards electric mobility as an alternative in terms of cost and environmental friendliness,” he said.
According to him, the sector presents significant opportunities for Nigeria, particularly in job creation and entrepreneurship, as the country builds the technical capacity required to respond to emerging technologies.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the management of Auto Clinic Centre, Abuja, for its commitment to technological advancement and partnership with NOUN in developing skills in electric mobility and automobile diagnostics.
He stressed the need for stronger collaboration between industry and higher education institutions, noting that universities could provide the platform for developing the human capital needed to unlock emerging sectors.
“The management and the university at large are proud to be associated with this programme, and we hope to expand into other emerging areas,” he said.
Prof. Uduma urged participants to uphold safety, integrity and professionalism as they acquire the skills needed to operate in the evolving electric mobility industry.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Shehu Usman Adamu, who is also the Chairman of the Vice-Chancellor’s Committee on Certificate Courses, described the programme as timely and significant to national development.
He stressed the need for properly trained technicians capable of handling electric vehicles, adding that the integration of academic knowledge with practical trade skills would provide a strong foundation for further training and development in electric mobility.
Chief Executive Officer of Auto Clinic Centre, Abuja, Mr. Nathaniel Okwesiri, described electric vehicles as the future of transportation and called for improved professional training and certification within the automobile industry.
He observed that many mechanics currently operate without formal certification and emphasised the importance of proper training and licensing for professionals seeking to work in the emerging electric vehicle sector.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of CHRD, Dr. Amos Iliya, described the programme as timely, noting that Nigeria must develop the skilled workforce required to participate effectively in the global transition towards cleaner and smarter transportation.
“As the world moves towards cleaner and smarter transportation, Nigeria must build the skilled manpower to lead that change,” he said.
Dr. Iliya expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, the university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellors and Auto Clinic Centre for supporting the initiative, while urging participants to approach the training with dedication and commitment.
The Registrar of NOUN, Mr. Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, was represented at the occasion by Mrs. Folasade Oritogun, while the Deputy Bursar, Dr. Mrs. Mary Aimuyedo, also delivered a goodwill message.
Following the flag-off ceremony, participants proceeded to a technical session featuring presentations and practical discussions led by Dr. Amos Iliya; the Vice-Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, Prof. Albinu Musa; and the Head of the Technical Team at Auto Clinic Centre, Abuja.
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