Open Distance and Flexible e-Learning (ODFeL)

In recognition of the fact that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) holds the key to Nigeria becoming technologically relevant and internationally competitive in the global market, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) introduced the Open, Distance and Flexible e-Learning (ODFeL) initiative in 2016 to expand access to tertiary education. This was in response to the limited carrying capacity of tertiary institutions compared to the growing demand for higher education.

To achieve this goal, the NBTE developed the National TVET Policy and Strategy on ODFeL in 2018, which serves as the guiding document for the implementation and operation of ODFeL in Nigeria's TVET sector. This policy has been reviewed and awaiting approval before adoption.

In 2021, formal approval was granted for the rollout of the ODFeL initiative, marking the beginning of its structured implementation across the TVET landscape.

ODFeL differs significantly from the conventional or traditional methods of instruction delivery. It is learner-centred, emphasizing the student as the focus of the educational process. Under this system, teaching and learning are characterized by a separation of teacher and learner in time and/or space, the use of multimedia tools for instructional delivery, two-way communication, and occasional face-to-face meetings for tutorials and interaction between learners and instructors.

ODFeL caters to various learning styles, including visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and peer group learners particularly for those who cannot or choose not to participate in classroom-based instruction on a full-time basis. It provides a flexible alternative tailored to the unique needs of individual learners.

This mode of learning enables secondary school graduates to enroll in TVET programmes and pursue their courses remotely, without relocating, by leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

NBTE currently approves a 70:30 delivery ratio:

• 70% of the instruction is delivered online,

• 30% is reserved for practical sessions and examinations, conducted physically at the institution.

To ensure quality assurance and accountability, the NBTE, with support from the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), has developed a Standard and Accreditation Tool for ODFeL. This tool establishes benchmarks for the creation and maintenance of ODFeL Centres and programmes. Additionally, a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework has been established to track performance, ensure compliance with standards, and support continuous quality improvement across institutions offering ODFeL.

Requirements for Participation in ODFeL

Institutions intending to implement ODFeL must meet the following conditions:

1. Be an approved TVET institution with accredited programmes.

2. Provide evidence of completion of Digital Competency Training for online teaching (as offered by the NBTE Centre of Excellence).

3. Invite NBTE to conduct capacity building/sensitisation of staff on the following:

- ODFeL Mode: Learner-Centered Competency-Based Learning (CBL)

- Competency-Based Examination and Testing

- ODFeL Standards and Accreditation Tool

- ODFeL Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

- Possess a robust Learning Management System (LMS)

- Subscribe to a recognized e-Library platform

Expression of Interest

Prospective institutions interested in offering ODFeL programmes should send an email to:

es@nbte.gov.ng and copy coe.tvet@nbte.gov.ng 

Available Courseware

ODFeL courseware is currently available in the following programmes:

1. Agric Technology

2. Building Technology

3. Computer Science 

4. Estate Management 

5. Library and Information Science

6. Science Laboratory Technology 

7. Quantity Surveying 

8. Accountancy 

9. Business Administration 

10. Marketing 

11. Mass Communication

12. Public Administration 

13. Procurement and Supply Chain Management 

For further information, please call or Send a WhatsApp Message to 09111317403

To download ODFeL guide

i. Click here to download the ODFeL Policy (2018)

ii. Click here to download the Standards and Accreditation Tools for ODFeL 

iii. Click here to download the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework on ODFeL

So far, 40 Institutions have been approved to run ODFeL. They are: