Reforms at the Abuja Model Study Centre

The Director of the Abuja Model Study Centre at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Bamikole Ogunleye, has announced a series of reforms aimed at improving power supply, strengthening examination security, enhancing student support services, and promoting accountability among staff.

Ogunleye, who has been in office for about four months, stated that these initiatives are designed to address operational challenges, improve service delivery, and create a more conducive learning environment for students. In an interview with the NOUN News Correspondent, he emphasized that his previous experience managing other study centres has equipped him to identify areas requiring urgent intervention.

One of the major interventions includes the installation of a 12kVA solar power system in the centre’s electronic examination hall, which aims to minimize disruptions caused by unreliable electricity supply. Ogunleye explained that the previous reliance on generators during examinations often led to difficulties for both students and management when equipment malfunctioned.

With the new solar installation, the centre can switch between the national grid, solar power, and its generator to ensure uninterrupted examinations while reducing diesel consumption. Additionally, Ogunleye disclosed plans to install 16 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in the pen-on-paper examination hall before the next semester’s examinations. This surveillance system will allow comprehensive monitoring of the examination hall, enabling authorized personnel to observe activities remotely through an application.

The proposed CCTV system will not require recurring subscription payments, making it a sustainable investment in examination monitoring and security. Furthermore, the centre’s generator has been refurbished with support from the university management and is now functioning effectively.

Ogunleye noted that the number of solar streetlights on campus has increased from 38 to 51, and a prominent sign bearing the university’s name has been installed at the entrance gate to enhance the centre’s visibility.

In his efforts to prioritize initiatives that improve students’ academic performance and overall university experience, Ogunleye announced plans to introduce organized group study sessions from the next semester under the guidance of the Counselling Unit. These sessions will group students according to their areas of specialization and registered courses, encouraging collaborative learning and peer-to-peer tutorials. He mentioned that students have welcomed this proposal, expressing enthusiasm about studying together at the centre.

Ogunleye also highlighted the importance of the centre’s business centre in providing reliable assistance with registration and other academic processes. He cautioned students against relying on external cybercafés to complete their Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs), explaining that this practice could deprive them of essential learning opportunities and negatively affect their examination performance.

He urged students to take responsibility for their course registration and maintain control of their university portals, rather than allowing third parties to manage their academic activities. Ogunleye emphasized that improving the student experience is crucial for building confidence in the university and encouraging students to recommend NOUN to their friends and family.

As preparations for the forthcoming examinations intensify, Ogunleye assured that the centre has taken steps to ensure its facilities, equipment, and personnel are ready. He disclosed that examination materials have been procured, and technicians have been engaged to repair and service printers and photocopying machines ahead of the exercise. Ogunleye also held a pre-examination briefing with students to explain the expected standards of conduct, the importance of complying with invigilators’ instructions, and the consequences of examination malpractice.

He expressed appreciation to the university management, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, for its support and willingness to address challenges affecting study centres. Ogunleye noted that regular interactions with management have provided opportunities for centre administrators to present their concerns and contribute to efforts aimed at improving service delivery. He called on staff members to cooperate with the centre’s management in pursuing its development goals, stressing that collective effort is essential for achieving lasting progress. These initiatives reflect the centre’s determination to provide students with a more reliable, secure, and supportive learning environment.