NCC hands over fully equipped Virtual Exam Centre to MAPOLY

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has officially handed over a fully equipped the Virtual Examination Centre (VEC) to Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta.

The Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, who was represented by the Director of Projects of the Commission, Mr Philip Eretan, said the project was a new chapter of innovation and excellence in education.

Danbatta explained that the Virtual Examination Centre (VEC) was an intervention programme that entailed the construction of a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre, with 250 tables and chairs, installation of 250 Desktop Computers, equipping the center with an Internet Cloud facility peripherals and provision of a 250KVA generator, and other operational facilities.

Danbatta explained that the Virtual Examination Centre, VEC, was an intervention programme that entailed the construction of a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology, ICT, Centre, with 250 tables and chairs, installation of 250 Desktop Computers, equipping the center with an Internet Cloud facility peripherals and provision of a 250KVA generator, and other operational facilities.

He disclosed further that the federal government had developed National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, NDEPS, 2020-2030 and Nigerian National Broadband Plan, NNBP, 2020-2025 as two policy documents geared towards using ICT for the socio-economic development of Nigeria.

His words: “The Commission as part of her mandate to implement the above policy documents has developed various intervention projects which are geared towards promoting ICT Literacy and Digital Skills; increasing ICT penetration; ensuring that Staff and Students leverage digital technology for research, learning, inspiration for innovation, capacity building and advancement among others. These programmes are implemented across the six geo-political zones in the country.

“The Virtual Examination Centre is not merely a physical space; it represents a nexus of knowledge, technology, and the aspirations of our students. It is a place where traditional assessment methods converge with modern digital solutions, creating an environment that is conducive to fair, secure, and efficient evaluations.

“The Centre is a testament to our commitment to academic integrity. With robust safeguards and advanced proctoring mechanisms, the assessment conducted here will maintain the highest standards of credibility and impartiality. Students can take their examinations with confidence, knowing that their hard work and dedication will be accurately measured and fairly acknowledged.

“Furthermore, this centre underscores our dedication to accessibility and inclusivity. Through virtual examinations, geographical barriers are broken down, and equal opportunities are created for learners from diverse backgrounds. Education becomes borderless, and every student, regardless of their location can participate in the assessment process seamlessly.”

He urged the management of the polytechnic to ensure adequate maintenance of the facilities and uphold the primary objectives of the project, which centre on educational development.

“As we hand over this Virtual Examination Centre to the students, faculties and the entire academic community of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, let us not forget the responsibility that comes with it. Maintain it and use the centre as a platform to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge, nurturing critical thinking, and preparing our students to be leaders and change-makers in their respective fields,” he said, adding, “To our students, I encourage you to embrace the opportunities presented by this centre with enthusiasm and dedication. Remember that education is not just a destination, it is a lifelong journey that shapes your character and empowers you to contribute meaningfully to our society.”

In his response, the Rector, Dr Adeoye Odedeji, said the VEC project donated by the NCC was one of the best offers ever recorded in the history of the 44 years journey of the polytechnic.

Odedeji commended Prof. Danbatta on the successful completion of the project while applauding the efforts of Mr Philip Eretan, Engr. Kenneth Uzoekwe, the Deputy Director of Projects, NCC and Mr Yomi Arowosafe, the NCC Zonal Controller, Lagos Zonal Office at handing over event.

He lauded the integrity of the NCC for its choice of beneficiaries’ selection which is devoid of lobbying but strictly on qualified assessment.

According to the Rector, “It appears as if you are conversant with our needs. That is again to testify that before you embarked on any project, you did a thorough needs assessment.”

While appreciating the donors on behalf of the polytechnic, the Registrar, Mrs Olubunmi Elewodalu, affirmed optimism of effective compliance with the extant objective of the NCC and solicited more laudable projects from the commission.

The Deputy Rector, Dr Mrs Yetunde Lanre-Iyanda; Director of Academic Planning, Mr Segun Aninkan; Chairman, Projects Monitoring Committee of the Polytechnic, Engr. (Dr.) Ahmed Olanrewaju Apampa; Head of Physical Planning, Mr. Nurain Ibrahim were among members of staff in attendance.