The Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof.Uduma O. Uduma, has commissioned the Senate Garden Sit-Out, a relaxation facility constructed beside the Senate Building at the university's headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
The facility was inaugurated on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Chiedu Mafiana, who represented the Vice-Chancellor.
The project was executed by the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Batch One students as part of their Community Development Project, themed "Bridging Theory and Practice through Community Development and Sustainable Campus Engagement."
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Mafiana described the initiative as a commendable demonstration of the university's commitment to experiential learning and community development.
He noted that community-based projects play a vital role in promoting sustainable development and social inclusion, adding that they provide students with practical opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-life challenges.
Drawing a parallel with the objectives of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mafiana said community service remains an important tool for fostering national development and civic responsibility.
He commended the students, the Head of the Department of Development Studies, Dr. William Emina, and the Faculty of Social Sciences for successfully conceptualising and completing the project.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, however, stressed that while community development projects are valuable learning experiences, students should not be unduly burdened by their execution.
He assured them that the university's Senate would provide support where necessary to ensure the sustainability of such initiatives.
Earlier, the Head of the Department of Development Studies, Dr. William Emina, explained that community development and corporate social responsibility are integral components of the department's academic curriculum.
According to him, students are encouraged to undertake projects that positively impact their communities, noting that the Senate Garden Sit-Out reflects the department's vision of producing graduates who combine academic excellence with meaningful community service.
Emina added that the project was designed to instil lifelong values of volunteerism, social responsibility and active citizenship among students.
The project's consultant, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, who is also the Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, praised the students for their resilience and dedication in delivering the initiative.
He also lauded the university's management for providing the necessary support that ensured the successful completion of the project.
The newly commissioned Senate Garden Sit-Out offers members of the university community a serene outdoor space for relaxation, reflection and informal interaction.
Designed as a peaceful retreat from the demands of the work environment, the facility is expected to promote staff and students' well-being while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the university's headquarters.
- Log in to post comments
- 40 views
