The Federal Government has mandated all Nigerian universities to implement Anthology Blackboard, a digital learning management system, by the end of 2025. This directive was issued by the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, during a meeting with vice-chancellors in Abuja, where he expressed dissatisfaction with the slow transition to digital education in higher institutions.
Dr. Alausa emphasized the need for universities to break away from outdated teaching methods and embrace a hybrid learning system that blends physical and virtual education. He noted that digital learning tools are essential for modern education and urged institutions to allocate their ICT intervention funds toward integrating Anthology Blackboard into their academic framework.
He stressed that the use of technology in education is no longer an option but a necessity, given the increasing demand for flexible and accessible learning. According to him, universities must take proactive steps to establish digital classrooms that enable students to access quality education remotely. He assured that while implementation might require training and infrastructure adjustments, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) would provide the necessary support to ensure a smooth transition.
The minister particularly encouraged universities in regions affected by insecurity to leverage the hybrid learning model. He pointed out that in areas where students face difficulties attending physical classes due to security concerns, online learning could serve as a vital solution to ensure continuity in education. He cautioned that this initiative is not merely a recommendation but a policy that universities must comply with before the deadline.
Beyond digital transformation, Dr. Alausa also addressed Nigeria’s growing admission crisis. He highlighted that approximately two million candidates apply for university admission through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) each year, but only about 330,000 secure admission. This means that roughly 75 percent of applicants are unable to access tertiary education, a situation he described as unacceptable.
He urged universities to explore ways to expand their admission capacity rather than restricting entry due to infrastructural limitations. He suggested that digital learning could help accommodate more students by reducing the dependency on physical classroom space. Additionally, he called for a stronger focus on specialized education programs that equip students with industry-relevant skills to bridge the existing gap in the labor market.
Dr. Alausa reassured universities of the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance learning experiences, increase access to higher education, and align academic programs with global best practices. He urged institutions to act swiftly in adopting the new system, stating that any delay in implementation would not be tolerated.
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