Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, has begun collaborating with international institutions and experts to enhance its digital learning platforms and broaden its educational outreach,Daily Trust reports.
During the launch of the university’s students’ career services unit on Thursday, Vice-Chancellor Ahmad Garba highlighted that this initiative aligns with the requirements of the current Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS).
Garba explained that the primary goal of the career services unit is to equip students with 21st-century skills, such as effective communication, digital literacy, and collaboration, to ensure they are employable.
ALSO READ: Posters: Ganduje Distances Self From 2027 Presidential Bid
“We have established a policy for this and developed specific career service courses. Students will engage with these courses at every level of their studies, from their first year through to their final year,” he said.
Garba expressed his gratitude for the presence of distinguished international experts, including Professor Mark Hill, a global professor of law at Notre Dame University in the United States, and an extraordinary professor of law affiliated with the University of Pretoria in South Africa and Cardiff University in the UK.
“We are also honoured to have Professor Renata from Central European University and Professor Kofi Quashisah from the University of Ghana here to support the launch of this important unit at our university,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the career service units are designed to develop essential 21st-century skills, addressing the challenge of unemployability among Nigerian graduates. Students will receive training in specific skills, including:
“For example, responsible use of social media—learning how to use it for business purposes rather than any other use,” he noted.
“Digital literacy skills, connecting students with professional mentors, crafting effective resumes and CVs, preparing for job interviews, and so on.
“After graduation, universities are now expected to track their alumni to maintain a connection with them wherever they may be. This is the core purpose of the career service directorate.”
Garba also requested that Professor Hill and other experts engage with students online by delivering lectures related to their programs.
“This collaboration will undoubtedly lead to academic partnerships, including student and faculty exchange programs, which are part of the plans for the career service directorate,” he added.
Professor Mark Hill praised Al-Muhhibah Open University as being at the forefront of modern development, offering unparalleled services to its students.
Hill emphasized that the launch of the career services unit will keep the university at the cutting edge of educational activities, providing students with a competitive advantage in their studies and future employment opportunities.
“The university deserves commendation for its achievements, and this launch serves as a springboard for further progress,” he said.
He also expressed optimism about the possibilities for providing mentorship, faculty exchanges, and student exchanges in a globalized world, highlighting the importance of collaboration for mutual achievement.
