FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, DUTSE GETS DISTANCE LEARNING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION SCHOOL

The Senate of Federal University Dutse, under the chairmanship of Professor Ahmed Muhammed Gumel, has approved the establishment of the School of Continuing and Distance Learning Education (SCDLE).

According to the university management, the new school is designed to meet the increasing educational needs of working professionals, non-traditional students, and international learners seeking flexible academic opportunities.

The initiative is also expected to provide alternative admission pathways for qualified applicants who are unable to secure placement through the conventional full-time system.

Focus on Flexible and Technology-Driven Learning

Speaking on the development, the Vice-Chancellor stated that the global higher education landscape is rapidly shifting toward flexible and technology-based learning models, stressing that the university cannot afford to be left behind.

Professor Gumel explained that the establishment of the School of Continuing and Distance Learning Education aligns with the university’s vision of expanding access to quality education while promoting digital literacy and professional development.

He further noted that the initiative would help bridge existing educational access gaps and also contribute to the university’s internally generated revenue.

Modes of Learning

The Vice-Chancellor revealed that the school will adopt a multi-channel learning approach to maintain academic quality and flexibility for students regardless of location or schedule.

Continuing Education

This category is specifically designed for local professionals and learners who prefer physical interaction. Lectures will be conducted through:

• Weekend classes
• Evening programmes
• Face-to-face instruction

Distance Learning

The distance learning model will operate as a fully digital and borderless system, where the entire academic process will be managed through a modern Learning Management System (LMS).

Students will be able to:

• Attend lectures online
• Submit assignments digitally
• Participate in virtual learning activities
• Access course materials remotely

Blended Learning

The university will also introduce a blended learning format, combining:

• Approximately 60% online learning
• About 40% face-to-face intensive sessions

This hybrid approach is expected to provide flexibility while still maintaining physical academic engagement where necessary.

Programmes Across Various Faculties

Professor Gumel disclosed that the programmes under the new school will cut across several faculties within the university, including:

• Agriculture
• Computing
• Management Sciences
• Other related disciplines

He assured prospective students and stakeholders that all programmes offered under the school would maintain the same academic standards and quality assurance measures as the university’s conventional degree programmes.

Expanding Access to Higher Education

The establishment of the School of Continuing and Distance Learning Education represents another major step in the university’s effort to expand access to tertiary education through innovation and technology.

The university management expressed optimism that the initiative would create more opportunities for individuals seeking flexible learning options while supporting national and global trends in digital education.