Governor Alex Otti has directed relevant officials to commence the search for a temporary site for a National Open University of Nigeria study centre in Aba.

Mr Otti gave the directive while receiving the NOUN vice-chancellor, Uduma Uduma, who paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA.

Ambrose Gowong, NOUN spokesman, said in a statement on Wednesday that the governor’s decision followed the vice-chancellor’s request for policy direction on establishing a study centre in Aba.

Mr Otti directed the commissioner for tertiary education and the managing director of the Greater Aba Development Authority to begin the process for a temporary site pending a permanent facility.

The governor described Aba as a major commercial hub that should have a NOUN study centre.

Mr Otti noted that open and distance learning has evolved significantly with the aid of technology, including platforms such as Google Meet and Zoom, which have enhanced knowledge sharing.

“In view of the role NOUN is playing in advancing education, it is imperative that Aba has a study centre,” he said.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to educational development through the recruitment, training and retraining of teachers.

Mr Otti assured the university of the state government’s support for establishing the centre in Aba.

The governor also directed the commissioner for tertiary education to liaise with the management of the NOUN Umuahia study centre to identify areas where the state could assist in improving facilities.

(NAN)