The National Open University (NOUN) has scrapped its law programme, putting the careers of over 1000 students at risk.
The decision, ratified by the University’s Senate in January 2023, affects final-year students who are nearing completion of their projects.
Concerned law students have written to the House of Representatives seeking intervention, and a meeting was held between student representatives and university management in November 2023.
However, no meaningful progress has been made. Students are lamenting the lack of communication from the university, with many learning about the development on social media.
They allege that the university has neglected to address their queries and concerns, placing them in a challenging situation.
The discontinuation of the law program means that students who have invested millions of naira and five years of study may not be able to graduate or receive their certificates.
The university’s decision to suspend the admission of new law students until fresh accreditation is obtained has also raised alarms. Ibrahim Sheme, the Public Relations Officer of NOUN, declined to comment on the issue, instead requesting reporters to visit him at his office.
The development has sparked outrage and anxiety among the affected students, who are seeking a solution to their predicament.