The University of IbadanDistance Learning Centre (UIDLC) on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, formally welcomed about 3,000 newly admitted students during its 2025/2026 Orientation Programme held at the PIFA Hall, DLC, University of Ibadan.
The event brought together new learners admitted into the Centre’s 16 academic programmes and provided them with an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the academic, administrative and support structures available to facilitate their studies.
The orientation programme featured presentations by principal officers of the Centre, representatives of the University Health Services, health maintenance organisations, security personnel and administrative staff, all aimed at equipping the new students with the information required for a successful academic journey.
In his welcome address, the Director of the Distance Learning Centre, Professor O.F.W. Onifade, congratulated the learners on securing admission into Nigeria’s premier university and assured them that they enjoy the same rights, privileges and academic standards as students in the conventional mode of study.
He explained that the University of Ibadan operates a dual-mode system and that distance learners are bona fide students of the institution. According to him, the Centre is guided by the principle of parity of esteem, ensuring that the quality of teaching, course content and certificates awarded to distance learners are equivalent to those in the face-to-face programme.
Professor Onifade noted that the Centre, which marked its 39th anniversary in 2026, has continued to expand access to quality higher education through Open and Distance Learning. He acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, for the growth and development of the Centre.
The Director also enlightened the students on the unique nature of the University’s Open and Distance Learning model, describing it as a blended system that combines technology-driven learning with limited face-to-face interactions. He encouraged the learners to actively participate in interactive sessions facilitated by lecturers from the mainstream university while taking advantage of the flexibility offered by self-paced learning.
Professor Onifade further highlighted the Centre’s investment in technology, including its state-of-the-art Computer-Based Testing facilities, which feature three examination halls capable of accommodating up to 500 students each. He stressed the importance of digital literacy, urging students to develop the computer skills necessary for effective participation in the modern learning environment.
One of the highlights of the programme was a presentation on the University’s health services and the benefits available to students. Representatives of Mediplan and Prohealth Health Maintenance Organisations educated participants on health insurance options and the importance of healthcare coverage throughout their academic pursuits.
Security awareness also featured prominently during the orientation. The University’s Chief Security Officer addressed the students on security issues and the importance of maintaining a security-conscious lifestyle as learners.
The Deputy Director (Administration), Professor Olubukola S. Adesina, delivered a presentation on making the best use of Open and Distance Learning programmes, while the Acting Deputy Bursar, Dr. J.A. Alamu, provided guidance on financial matters relating to studentship and fee payment processes.
New learners were also introduced to examination guidelines and regulations by the Centre’s examinations office. Additional presentations focused on learner support services, records management and computer proficiency training, all of which are essential components of the Distance Learning Centre’s operations.
The orientation programme was attended by key officials of the Centre and the University, including the Deputy Director (Administration), Professor Olubukola S. Adesina; Deputy Director (Academic), Professor A. Tella; Deputy Registrar, Mr. O. Dairo; Acting Deputy Bursar, Dr. J.A. Alamu; Acting Chief Internal Auditor, Mrs. Temitope O. Olaoye; Director of University Health Services, Dr. Ajav; the Chief Security Officer; programme coordinators and members of staff.
Beyond familiarising students with academic procedures and institutional expectations, the orientation served as an important platform for introducing learners to the support systems designed to ensure their success throughout their studies.
A noteworthy feature of this year’s intake was the increasing presence of younger learners among the newly admitted students, reflecting the growing appeal of Open and Distance Learning beyond its traditional base of working-class and adult learners.
As the programme concluded, participants were encouraged to uphold the University of Ibadan’s tradition of excellence and its commitment to producing graduates who are worthy in character and sound in judgement. The orientation provided a strong foundation for the new learners as they embark on their academic journey at the University’s Distance Learning Centre.
