Miva Open University has obtained full operational licensing and accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC). This significant milestone was announced by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Tayo Arulogun, who highlighted the institution's journey and vision for Nigeria's higher education future. Miva Open University was established in March 2023 by the Unesi Group and licensed by the NUC two months later.
The NUC granted Miva full operational licensing on September 23, 2026, with all its take-off programmes now carrying full accreditation status required of Nigerian universities. This achievement demonstrates that open and technology-driven education can provide a credible pathway into Nigeria's workforce. The institution started with eight disciplines and has since expanded to five undergraduate schools, including Communication and Media Studies.
Miva Open University offers eight postgraduate programmes, including Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, Master of Public Administration, Master of Public Health, and Master of Information Technology. The university's model combines digital learning with physical support centres and practical experiences designed to prepare students for life beyond the classroom.
As part of its efforts to bridge the gap between university education and employment, Miva Open University has made a six-month internship compulsory for all students. According to Arulogun, this move aims to equip students with substantial professional experience before graduation. Students are also encouraged to volunteer their skills and services while studying.
The emphasis on employability is significant, especially given the ongoing debate over the participation of open university graduates in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Arulogun noted that although the Federal Government had previously indicated that graduates of open universities should be allowed to participate in the scheme, the policy had yet to be implemented.
Arulogun argued that while the university would continue to pursue the matter, graduates should also be equipped with skills and experience that would enable them to secure employment without relying solely on NYSC participation. About 70 per cent of Miva's graduates are already employed, which Arulogun attributed partly to the institution's focus on internships, volunteering, and practical skills.
The Vice Chancellor expressed confidence in the institution's model, stating that it addresses doubts about online degrees. He noted that Miva's graduates are evidence that open and technology-driven education can be a credible pathway into Nigeria's workforce. The institution's focus on practical skills and experience is expected to continue to yield positive results for its graduates.
Key points
- Miva Open University has secured full accreditation from the NUC and made six-month internship mandatory for students.
- The institution's model combines digital learning with physical support centres and practical experiences.
- About 70 per cent of Miva's graduates are already employed.
