In a bid to achieve the goals of postgraduate programmes in the 21st Century in Nigeria, the Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Professor Olufemi Peters, has called on Provosts and Deans of Postgraduate Colleges and Schools in Nigerian universities to embrace strategic variables in running postgraduate programmes.
Prof. Peters stated this while delivering his keynote address during the 64th Regular and 2nd Virtual Meeting of the Committee of Provosts and Deans of Postgraduate Colleges and Schools (CPDPGCS) in Nigerian universities.
Speaking on the topic: "Achieving the Strategic Goals of Postgraduate Colleges and Schools in Nigerian Universities," Peters stated that strategic variables are integral to successfully running postgraduate programmes.
According to Peters, "the operational perspectives of postgraduate education have shifted from a rigid, discipline-focused model in the 20th Century to a more flexible, interdisciplinary, and inclusive approach in the 21st Century.
"This shift has been shaped by changes in technology, globalisation, labour market demands, and educational philosophy."
He further pointed out that running effective postgraduate programmes in an institution requires careful consideration of various strategic variables that can influence their success and sustainability.
Citing NOUN's experience, the VC hinted that institutions can effectively support research capabilities in their postgraduate offerings through a variety of strategies aimed at enhancing the research environment, providing resources, and fostering a culture of inquiry.
Moreover, he also advised that institutions must be proactive in addressing these areas to create a conducive environment that fosters academic excellence, research innovation, fosters collaboration, prioritises student support, and prepares graduates for an increasingly complex and interconnected world and career readiness for their students.
“By focusing on these strategic variables, institutions can enhance the quality and impact of their postgraduate offerings, ensuring long-term sustainability and relevance in a competitive educational landscape and achieve the strategic goals of postgraduate education in the 21st Century requires an adaptive approach that embraces technology.
“By implementing these strategies, we have created a robust environment that supports and enhances the research capabilities of postgraduate students.
"This not only enriches the educational experience but also contributes to the advancement of knowledge and innovation within the academic community and beyond.
"Now, more than ever, NOUN’s experience as a distance and online university can help adults respond to disruption, new technology, changes at work, and new possibilities. It makes sense to trust a university that has a comprehensive Learner Support Services (LSS) department of helping adults become future-fit while they study at home.
"We provide unparalleled support, resources and study options that have led to us becoming one of the best universities in PG study in West Africa," NOUN VC said.
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