Former President of Nigeria, President Olusegun Obasanjo has argued that the rigorous and quality content of Online and Distance Learning will ultimately vindicate it as a robust system of education.

Ex-President Obasanjo, a product of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), disclosed that he was satisfied with rigour of training he experienced as a learner at NOUN and would vouch for the quality of content delivered.

“I am a proud product of Open and Distance Learning; I’m satisfied with the rigour of training I received.”

The former Nigerian leader, fondly called “Baba", gave the affirmation when he addressed the 6th African Council for Distance Education(ACDE) Triennial Conference as the Special Guest of Honour. The three-day virtual conference will end on Wednesday, September 29.

It is under the theme “Open and  Distance Learning, the Continental Education Strategy for Africa and the United Nations Sustainable  Development Goal 4(SDG 4).

Ex-President Obasanjo, who is currently Africa’s Union Envoy to the Horn of Africa, said he is living a life of life immense fulfilment and joy because he “arduously earned” his Doctor of Philosophy degree from the National Open University of Nigeria.

In his view, the doubts over the quality of Open and Distance Learning would not vaporise overnight, and that the skepticism could be defused if the high-quality standards are maintained.

He called on the ACDE to make itself relevant in Africa by helping solve problems on the continent. Additionally, he asked the continental body to work closely with other international organisations, including the African Union Commission, Commonwealth of Learning and Development Partners to develop a relevant framework for continuous improvement of education in Africa.

In recognition of ex-President Obasanjo's visionary and invaluable contribution to the development of education, particularly his significant role in the establishment of the NOUN, the ACDE presented him with the Strategic African Leadership Award.

The event was chaired by the Distinguished Prof. Peter Okebukola, Chairman of Council, NOUN.