The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has been designated an Institute of Excellence and Thematic Lead for Quality Open Education in Emerging Economies by the International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE), further strengthening the university’s global standing in open, distance and digital learning.
ICDE has also appointed the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Olufemi Peters, as Global ICDE Chair in Quality Open Education in Emerging Economies, a role through which he will represent the university in advancing the thematic area.
The appointments were conveyed in a letter dated August 26, 2026, and communicated to the university community by the Registrar, Mr. Oladipo Ajayi.
The designation will take effect from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2028, during which NOUN will provide academic, strategic and institutional leadership in the area of quality open education in emerging economies.
The university is also expected to contribute expertise to ICDE events, publications and initiatives, while promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing and capacity development across the organisation’s global network.
Ajayi described the appointment of Prof. Peters as a well-deserved recognition of his distinguished contributions to the growth and advancement of open and distance learning.
“The university is particularly delighted by your recognition, which reflects your distinguished role, wealth of experience and longstanding contribution to the development of open and distance learning.
“The designation also presents an opportunity for you to contribute your expertise to the advancement of quality open education in emerging economies,” he said.
He expressed confidence that Prof. Peters’ vast experience and international reputation would support the successful implementation of NOUN’s thematic leadership mandate and further enhance the university’s global visibility and impact.
The recognition places NOUN among a select group of institutions entrusted with advancing ICDE’s mission of expanding access to quality open, distance and digital education, particularly in emerging economies.
The honour underscores NOUN’s growing influence in the global open and distance learning community and reinforces its position as a leading institution driving innovation, access and quality education across Africa and beyond.
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