Dislodging the “University of Nkwo Nnewi” through Open and Distance Learning

Abstract

It is not uncommon for a young Igbo trader from Anambra State to announce proudly that he is now at UNN (University of Nigeria, Nsukka) and the uniformed listener believes him not knowing that this brand of UNN stands for “University of Nkwo Nnewi”, representating various markets in Nigeria where Igbo boys who dropped out of schools and attach themselves to prosperous businessmen for igba odibo,(apprenticeship) before establishing their own businesses. The rate at which young boys abandon school is becoming worrisome so policy makers in Anambra State focus on curbing low male enrolment and high school dropout. Those who dropped out of school early in life are completely forgotten, so, this research is to fill that gap. The objective of this research therefore is to present this group, the problem they encounter and proffer solution. The findings indicate that they face more problems in business than their forebears because information technology has rendered moderate education inadequate for the business transactions. Consequently some of them yearn to go back to school but are incapacitated by time constraints. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), provides an excellent platform for them to study at their own pace but there is need advocacy campaigns through town unions, market associations, age grades and drama to create awareness for them.