The Vice Chancellor of Miva Open University, Professor Tayo Arulogun, has emphasized that the exclusion of open university graduates from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) should not hinder their career prospects. He made this statement in Abuja, highlighting the university's focus on providing students with practical skills and work experience. Miva Open University, established in March 2023, aims to equip its graduates with the necessary tools to compete effectively in the Nigerian labour market.
According to Arulogun, Miva Open University is taking proactive steps to prepare its students for the workforce by making internships, volunteering, and mentoring compulsory. Students are required to complete a six-month internship, and are also encouraged to volunteer their skills and services to organisations. This approach enables students to accumulate practical experience, which can be beneficial when entering the workforce. The university's statistics show that 70 per cent of its graduates are already employed.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the issue of NYSC participation for open university graduates remains unresolved, despite previous indications from the federal government that they should be allowed to participate. In 2025, the President mentioned that graduates from open universities should be allowed to serve, but this has yet to translate to reality. Arulogun emphasized that Miva is not focusing on the NYSC issue, but rather on providing students with practical skills and work experience.
Miva Open University has received a major regulatory milestone, with the National Universities Commission (NUC) granting the university full operational licensing on September 23. This development is a significant step forward for the institution, which was licensed by the NUC in May 2023. The university has expanded its programmes to include five undergraduate schools and eight postgraduate programmes.
Arulogun highlighted that Miva's concept of access goes beyond simply providing students with internet-based lectures. The university has established physical support systems to ensure that students receive a comprehensive education. The institution began with eight disciplines and has since expanded its offerings to meet the needs of students.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that having practical skills and work experience can give open university graduates an advantage in the labour market. He encouraged students to adapt and change their approach to education, focusing on accumulating practical experience and skills. This approach can make graduates more attractive to potential employers.
Miva Open University's focus on practical skills and work experience is yielding positive results, with 70 per cent of its graduates already employed. The university's approach to education is innovative, and its emphasis on internships, volunteering, and mentoring is preparing students for the workforce. As the institution continues to grow and expand its programmes, it is likely to make a significant impact on the Nigerian education sector.
Key points
- Miva Open University's Vice Chancellor emphasizes practical skills and work experience over NYSC participation.
- The university has received full operational licensing from the NUC.
- Miva's approach to education includes compulsory internships and volunteering.
