History of Miva Open University, Abuja
Miva Open University, based in Abuja, Nigeria, is a pioneering private online institution established in 2023 by uLesson, an edtech company founded by Sim Shagaya. The university was conceived to address the challenges of limited access to quality tertiary education in Nigeria by leveraging technology to provide flexible and affordable learning opportunities.
On March 10, 2023, Miva was founded, and by May 16, 2023, it received its license from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to operate as an open and distance learning (ODL) institution. This approval allowed Miva to offer fully online bachelor’s degree programs, eliminating the need for physical attendance except for examinations, which are conducted at registered centers nationwide.
The university commenced admissions on May 25, 2023, initially offering eight disciplines across two faculties: Computing, and Management and Social Sciences. Subsequently, it expanded to include the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, bringing the total to 14 undergraduate programs, including Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, Public Health, Nursing Science, Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Information Technology, Criminology & Security Studies, Mass Communication, Business Management, and Public Policy and Administration.
In April 2024, Miva launched its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, followed by the introduction of a Master of Public Administration in October 2024, further broadening its academic offerings.
Miva’s inaugural matriculation ceremony took place in November 2023, welcoming 532 students. By October 2024, the university had matriculated over 3,000 students, reflecting rapid growth and a strong demand for its programs.
The university’s leadership includes Chancellor Sim Shagaya and Vice Chancellor Professor Tayo Arulogun, a certified expert in open and distance learning. Miva’s mission is to harness digital technology to deliver quality tertiary education, ensuring that every aspiring learner has the opportunity to unlock their potential.
Source: Wikipedia
