Miva University opens Lagos study centre, rolls out AI tool ‘MIND’ for students

Miva Open University has officially opened its Lagos Study Centre, marking a new step in its expansion efforts across Nigeria. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a guided tour of the facility, and the unveiling of an AI-powered learning companion named MIND.

Professor Tayo Arulogun, Vice Chancellor of Miva Open University, described the institution as a digital university designed to fit into the changing education landscape in Nigeria.

“We are using technology-enabled learning,” he said. “The licence we received is for blended learning, which allows students to work and study. We bring flexibility, a modern curriculum, and a project-based learning approach.”

Professor Arulogun explained that students would not only be digital-native but “AI-native,” referring to the institution’s integration of artificial intelligence in its learning processes. He added that this shift was crucial to helping students adapt to new workplace realities.

He also noted that more institutions may follow this model only if they meet the required standards. “The space is open, but the standards are high,” he stated. “We are focused on academic excellence, flexibility, and inclusive learning. The goal is to offer affordable, quality education regardless of background or geography.”

With Nigeria’s growing population, Professor Arulogun emphasised the need for scalable education solutions. “Traditional learning has its place, but to train more people, we need digital and blended models,” he said.

Responding to questions about expansion, the vice chancellor revealed plans to establish similar study centres in other major cities, including Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Kano. “We want to create smaller community centres across local governments,” he said. “These will give students access to power, support staff, and professors. People learn better in groups, and that is what we want to promote.”

Oladipo Olugbemi, Chief People Officer at Miva Open University, also highlighted the value of the new centre. He explained that the facility provides students with high-speed internet, collaboration spaces, and the tools needed to complete assignments and participate in virtual classes.

“Students are not necessarily coming here for lectures,” he said. “They are coming to engage, connect with peers, and have a campus experience. We are building communities.”

Olugbemi stressed that the university is strictly aligned with the National Universities Commission’s regulations and approved curriculum. “This study centre is the first of many,” he said. “We aim to replicate this across the country. Miva students in other states should expect a centre near them soon.”

He also introduced MIND, the university’s new AI tool designed to change how students learn. “It’s no longer about being a passive learner,” he said. “With MIND, students can interact, engage in case studies, and prepare for the world of work — not the future, but the now.”

Speaking on the tool, AyoOluwa Nihinlola, Chief Content Officer and head of the university’s R&D team, described MIND as “an AI-powered conversational learning companion that supports 2,500 concurrent users”.

He explained that the tool is built to help students understand, not just memorise, and that it is currently available only to enrolled students. “Security was a key consideration in its development,” he said. “We ensured full compliance with all relevant regulatory and security protocols. Access is restricted to our Learning Management System.”

Nihinlola encouraged prospective students to consider Miva Open University not only for its flexible curriculum and digital learning model but also for the exclusive access to tools like MIND.