Exploring the role of open and distance education in empowering women technological skills in Nigeria

Abstract

The pursuit of gender equality and women's empowerment is a crucial driver of societal and economic growth in any nation. Despite the expansion of educational opportunities, women in Nigeria still encounter major obstacles to pursuing higher education and developing their technological skills, particularly in rural areas. The study focuses on exploring how Open and Distance Education (ODE) can empower women's technological skills in Nigeria. The study used a descriptive survey design to examine 200 females (56% students and 44% staff) who were purposively selected from study centres of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in the six geo-political zones. Findings reveal that ODE greatly impacted women's access to quality education in Nigeria's rural regions. It also reveals financial constraints, limited access to information technology (IT) resources, and weak support mechanisms as major obstacles women face while accessing ODE. Finally, the findings suggest that ODE can play a transformative role by equipping women with skills relevant to the 4th industrial revolution, thereby enhancing their employment prospects, fostering entrepreneurial initiatives, and ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s broader socio-economic growth. Policy recommendations include investing in ODE infrastructure, increasing community awareness, and developing women-focused curricula to support an inclusive digital future for Nigerian women.