The National Universities Commission (NUC) visited Thomas Adewumi University, Oko, Kwara State, on Monday, 18th August 2025, to conduct a pre-validation exercise for the University’s Centre for Distance and eLearning (CeDeL) programme.

The NUC delegation, led by Prof. Bajide S. Afolabi, included Dr. Funmilayo Morebise, Dr. Gabriel Ligar, and Mr. Aliyu Dansabo. The visit aimed to assess the university’s readiness for the commencement of distance learning, with a particular focus on the Faculty of Nursing Sciences.

At the opening meeting, the Registrar, Mr. Kolawole Fisoye, introduced the University Management team, Deans, the Director of CeDeL, Dr. Abiodun Owolabi, and members of the Faculty of Nursing Sciences present.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francisca O. Oladipo, the Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical & Health Sciences, Prof. Emenike Irokanulo, welcomed the NUC team and expressed appreciation for their visit. He highlighted the significance of the CeDeL programme, noting that it was designed in response to the global demand for flexible learning. According to him, the programme will not only provide access to quality education for individuals seeking to improve their academic standing but will also combine both theoretical and practical training, ensuring well-rounded graduates.

Prof. Irokanulo further emphasized the University’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in its learning models, stressing that the CeDeL programme will contribute meaningfully to societal development.

In his response, the Team Lead, Prof. Bajide S. Afolabi, commended the University for the hospitality extended to the team and for the remarkable progress recorded within the University in just four years of establishment. He assured that the NUC’s role was to evaluate, advise, and guide the institution to ensure compliance with national standards.

Also speaking at the session, Prof. Joel A. Afolayan, a Professor in the Faculty of Nursing Sciences, appreciated the NUC for its continuous support, particularly during the establishment of the Faculty from the onset. He also expressed pride in the steady growth of his Faculty.

Following the deliberations, the NUC team inspected the facilities of the Centre for Distance and eLearning; the Physical Infrastructure, Staffing, Utility, Training & Capacity building, the Learning Management System (LMS), Studio, and the Course Materials. They concluded the exercise with a debriefing session, where feedback and recommendations were shared.

The prevalidation exercise was adjudged successful, marking a significant step towards the approval of the Nursing Sciences programme under the Centre for Distance and eLearning(CeDeL). As the University awaits formal approval, TAU reaffirmed its dedication to its mission of academic excellence and innovation.