The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education as 56 inmates from correctional centres across the country are set to graduate at its 15th convocation ceremony.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Uduma, disclosed this on Tuesday during a pre-convocation briefing in Abuja, noting that the initiative reflects the university’s mission of breaking barriers to learning and expanding access to education for all.
According to him, the inmates form part of a larger graduating set of 24,575 students scheduled to receive their certificates at the ceremony billed for April 18 across various NOUN study centres nationwide.
Uduma explained that the participation of inmates in the graduation underscores the institution’s Open and Distance Learning model, which allows students to pursue academic programmes regardless of location or circumstance, including within correctional facilities.
He described the programme as a deliberate effort to promote inclusion, rehabilitation, and social reintegration, stressing that education should serve as a tool for transformation rather than exclusion.
“For us, it is not just about awarding certificates; it is about restoring dignity, rebuilding identity, and reaffirming humanity,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor added that NOUN’s approach reflects the belief that no individual is beyond redemption, noting that access to education remains a fundamental right.
He also described the institution’s model as a “quiet revolution” in Nigeria’s education sector, highlighting its ability to serve diverse categories of learners, including working professionals, women, and inmates in correctional centres.
Uduma further stated that all graduating students, regardless of location, are expected to participate in the convocation, while certificates will be issued immediately after the ceremony as part of efforts to improve efficiency and student experience.
He commended staff and partners for sustaining the university’s nationwide reach and called for continued support in promoting inclusive education initiatives.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed that the prison education programme remains a key part of NOUN’s long-term vision to expand access to flexible, technology-driven learning across Africa.
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