Soro Community Study Centre takes off in Bauchi

‎The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has inaugurated a new Community Study Centre in Soro, Bauchi State, with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, describing the project as a “beacon of hope and opportunity” for the region.

‎Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor incharge of Administration, Prof. Isaac Buswat, the VC said the centre was more than just a physical structure.

‎According to him, it symbolizes the university’s commitment to knowledge, skill development, and empowerment of communities through education.

‎“The Soro Study Centre is designed to provide an optimal learning environment, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive resources to support every learner’s journey,” Peters said. 

‎He stressed that the centre would foster a culture of continuous learning, personal growth, and community development.

‎Highlighting NOUN’s pioneering role in Nigeria’s education landscape since its resuscitation in 2003, Peters noted that the university has revolutionised access to higher education through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system. 

‎He added that the model offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing working adults, women, and rural learners to pursue higher education without disrupting their lives.

‎“By expanding access to education, NOUN directly contributes to national development, fostering a more educated and skilled workforce. We have seen countless NOUN graduates from Bauchi State who are now leaders, innovators, and contributors in their fields. Their stories are a powerful testament to the transformative impact of distance learning.” he added.

‎The Vice-Chancellor also expressed gratitude to Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, NOUN management, and local stakeholders for their support in realising the project. 

‎He specifically commended Hon. Mansur Manu Soro, Member representing Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency, for facilitating the establishment of the centre. 

Peters further urged the private sector and non-governmental organisations to invest in educational infrastructure to foster sustainable growth.

‎In his remarks, NOUN Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, assured that staff would be immediately deployed to the centre to commence full operations.

‎He praised Hon. Soro for his foresight, noting that the facility would not only enhance access to quality education but also strengthen the constituency’s human capital development.

‎He encouraged residents across the constituency to enroll, stressing that their participation is key to making the centre viable.

‎Earlier in his address, Hon. Soro explained that the initiative was borne out of the need to tackle years of neglect in educational development in the Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency.

‎He said the centre, built on a 10-hectare site, can accommodate up to 1,000 undergraduates and is furnished with modern facilities.

‎“The establishment of this study centre is a milestone for Bauchi Central Senatorial Zone. It is expected to bridge the educational gap in the region and serve as a platform for future development,” he said.

‎The inauguration ceremony was attended by top NOUN officials, government representatives, and community leaders who lauded the initiative as a transformative step toward expanding access to higher education in Bauchi State.