As part of ongoing reforms, the minister instructed all institutions to adopt hybrid learning models by 2025. This move, he explained, is aimed at encouraging universities to focus on specialized education programs to bridge the widening skills gap in the workforce. By doing so, institutions can better equip students with the skills needed to excel in their careers, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
Dr. Alausa highlighted the stark reality of Nigeria’s admission crisis, noting that approximately two million candidates apply annually through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. However, only about 330,000 are admitted, representing an admission rate of just 22-25 per cent. This leaves roughly 75 per cent of applicants without access to higher education each year.
He stated, “Every year, two million people apply to JAMB to either go to universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Of those two million, only about 330,000 are admitted. This translates to an admission rate of just 22 to 25 per cent. What happens to the remaining 75 per cent, year after year?
“We have invested heavily in building infrastructure meant for students. Therefore, we shouldn’t limit admissions based on available accommodation. If universities need to provide accommodation, they can collaborate with private builders within a certain radius of the institution.”
The minister emphasized the need for universities to embrace modern technology, particularly hybrid learning, to tackle these challenges. He mandated that all universities implement Anthology Blackboard, a leading educational technology platform, by the end of this year.
Dr. Alausa added, “You need to embrace modern technology. This is something you should already be doing. Every university must start using Anthology Blackboard before the end of this year. It is one of the best technologies available and will support your hybrid learning initiatives. I understand training may be required, and we will work with TETFund to facilitate this.
“Hybrid learning is especially crucial in regions like the North, where security concerns often prevent students from attending classes physically. This should be your solution to keep students engaged.
“I have directed TETFund to link your ICT intervention funds to the deployment of Anthology Blackboard. Any institution that fails to implement this platform will not receive its ICT intervention funds. This is not a joking matter.”
The directive underscores the federal government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education while addressing the infrastructural and technological gaps in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.