The Federal Capital Territory Administration is looking to partner with the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, to develop non-conventional and flexible education programmes for adolescent girls, women, and vulnerable persons in the FCT.
Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, during a visit to the National Open University, emphasized the need to provide an innovative, conducive and flexible curricular for this category of persons to improve their access to tertiary education.
She said it has become imperative to prioritize the six area councils, making sure they all benefit equally, considering the challenges they face in accessing conventional education systems.
Benjamins-Laniyi stressed the importance of empowering these groups through education and developing programs that can accommodate their unique circumstances.
She added that the university’s non-conventional approach to education aligns with the vision of the Women Affairs Secretariat to provide learning opportunities that cater to the specific needs of women and vulnerable populations.
The Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, who expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasized the university’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in education.
He hinted of a planned addition of a special course focused on professional caregiving skill called “Super Nannies”.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the potential impact this course in empowering individuals to contribute to the holistic development and well-being of children and families, ultimately benefiting communities at large.
During the meeting, both parties discussed the potential for tailored educational programs that integrate life skills, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities, aiming to equip women and vulnerable individuals with the tools they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the partnership between the secretariat and the university represents a significant step towards addressing educational disparities and promoting women’s empowerment.
