Category: Uncategorized

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‎By Bolanle, Course Representative, Software Engineering Department (September 2025 Cohort)
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‎When I enrolled as an online student, my biggest expectation was flexibility. Like many people, I believed online learning would allow me to balance study easily with other aspects of life. In reality, that flexibility didn’t quite exist. The structure was more rigid than expected, and the workload demanded consistent time and attention. Online learning, I learned quickly, is not automatically easier just because it happens remotely.
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‎One of the most surprising aspects of studying online was how much discipline it required. Without physical classrooms, learning depends heavily on self-management. While recorded lectures and digital materials were extremely helpful—especially for revising and understanding lessons—the experience was often affected by technical issues with the school’s learning platform. These site-related challenges sometimes made learning harder than it needed to be, despite the quality of the academic content.
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‎Over time, online learning improved my time-management skills. Staying disciplined and keeping to a schedule became essential. Setting aside time daily, no matter how little, helped build consistency. However, technical difficulties remained frustrating. When the platform failed to work, there was often little a student could do beyond logging out and trying again. While internet access and personal devices were mostly reliable, the school’s site was not always dependable.
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‎Despite these challenges, maintaining relationships with course mates helped significantly. Group chats created a sense of connection and made remote learning feel less isolating. As course representative, I’ve managed to keep a good relationship with my course mates, which has been important for both academic and emotional support. Still, compared to physical classes, online learning felt harder and, surprisingly, less flexible.
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‎Online education is often misunderstood, but it deserves openness rather than dismissal. It is just as valid as physical learning, though not suitable for everyone. I wouldn’t recommend Miva to students who work demanding jobs expecting flexibility. However, it can be a good option for first-time students or those who can dedicate consistent time to studying.
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‎Ultimately, my experience has confirmed that online learning can be just as effective as traditional education. It prepares students for the future of work by strengthening time management and soft skills, but it in turn requires honesty about its limitations. Online learning is not easier. It is harder, and success depends on discipline, patience, and realistic expectations.

Miva Open University has announced the opening of its enrolment window for the new academic semester, marking an important step for students preparing to continue or begin their studies. The enrolment period is now active and will remain open until 28 February 2026, giving students a defined timeline to complete all required academic and financial processes ahead of the semester.

As part of the enrolment process, students are required to complete both their tuition payment and course enrolment through the Student Portal. The university has emphasized the importance of using the official portal to ensure accuracy and seamless registration, reinforcing its commitment to a fully digital and student-focused system.

To support students during this period, Miva Open University has made available a step-by-step guide designed to simplify the enrolment and tuition payment process. This resource is intended to reduce confusion and help students navigate the system efficiently, particularly for those managing the process independently for the first time.

The university has also clarified key policies for the semester. Tuition payments are to be made exclusively via Paystack on the Student Portal, as direct transfers to the university’s account are no longer accepted unless specifically communicated. In addition, all requests for semester deferment or change of course into the active semester must be submitted within the enrolment window, as late requests will be deferred to the following semester.

Miva Open University has encouraged students to complete their enrolment early to avoid last-minute challenges and ensure a smooth start to the semester. Students who require further assistance are advised to contact the university’s Success Team, as the institution continues to prioritize accessible support and a positive academic experience for its growing student community.

Learning at Miva Open University can be very hectic and time demanding, which contradicts the flexibility narrative and every student can testify to this.This is where lecturers come in and their role in the big picture of online learning is one that cannot be contended with.

Lecturers at Miva Open University play a central role in shaping the academic experience, proving that quality teaching is not limited by physical classrooms. In a fully online environment, their responsibilities go beyond delivering lectures to creating structured, engaging, and accessible learning experiences that support students wherever they are.

Rather than acting as distant instructors, Miva lecturers serve as academic guides who help students navigate course content with clarity. Through well-designed materials, timely communication, and continuous feedback and one- on-one sessions with students,they ensure that students remain connected to their studies. The digital format allows lessons to be revisited, questions to be addressed thoughtfully, and learning to progress at a pace that supports understanding.

The online nature of Miva’s teaching model also enhances interaction in meaningful ways. Virtual discussions, assessments, and feedback channels encourage participation and accountability. Students are not restricted by lecture hall schedules, yet they remain academically engaged through consistent lecturer presence and structured expectations.

Importantly, the absence of physical classrooms does not weaken academic standards. Lecturers at Miva design assessments and learning activities that emphasize critical thinking, application, and independent reasoning. This approach reinforces the idea that effective teaching is defined by quality engagement, not physical proximity.

As Miva Open University continues to redefine higher education, its lecturers remain a cornerstone of that vision. Their ability to adapt, communicate, and support students demonstrates that online learning, when thoughtfully delivered, is not a barrier but an opportunity for deeper and more flexible academic engagement.

As the new year begins, students and early-career professionals in technology are being offered a unique opportunity to gain practical insights and career guidance through the upcoming Career Success Conversations session. The event promises to equip attendees with actionable strategies to position themselves for success in the fast-evolving tech industry.

Scheduled for Friday, 16 January 2026, at 5:00 PM WAT, the session will be hosted virtually via Google Meet, making it accessible to undergraduate and postgraduate students across the region. Participants will explore approaches to effectively plan their career trajectories, enhance their professional presence, and develop skills that align with current industry demands.

Leading the session is David Abu, Senior Technical Product Marketing Manager at Microsoft and co-founder of Data Community Africa. With extensive experience in data, analytics, and AI-driven product strategy, Abu brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world insights that will be particularly valuable to students navigating their early steps in technology careers.

The discussion aims to offer practical advice that attendees can implement immediately, whether in shaping their academic focus, engaging in professional networks, or building competencies that are highly sought after in the tech landscape. Attendees are encouraged to actively participate, ask questions, and take advantage of the expertise shared during the session.

Students and early-career professionals interested in joining are asked to confirm their attendance by completing the RSVP form below:

https://tinyurl.com/yt3haj8s

Also, you can attend the session by using the link below:

https://tinyurl.com/4cfnmubt

Organizers emphasize that confirming participation ensures a more tailored and engaging experience, helping attendees start the year with clarity and direction in their career pursuits.

The opening weeks of a new semester at Miva Open University often set the pace for everything that follows. As students log back into the digital campus, there is a renewed sense of focus shaped by course outlines, academic goals, and the routines that define online learning. These early days are less about intensity and more about adjustment, helping students ease into the rhythm of the semester.

One of the defining features of the Miva experience during this period is the emphasis on self-structure. With lectures, resources, and assessments delivered online, students are expected to take ownership of their schedules. Those who engage early,by reviewing course materials and understanding expectations, tend to find the transition smoother as academic demands gradually increase.

Communication also plays a central role in the general Miva experience. Announcements, virtual interactions with lecturers, and peer discussions form the backbone of academic engagement. Staying attentive to these channels in the early weeks helps students remain informed and reduces the risk of missed deadlines or misunderstandings later in the semester.

Beyond academics, the start of a new term is a time when students reconnect with the broader university community. Group discussions, collaborative learning spaces, and informal interactions contribute to a sense of belonging, even within a fully online environment. These connections often become essential support systems as coursework becomes more demanding.

Starting strong at Miva ultimately means building consistency from the beginning. The early weeks provide an opportunity to establish habits that support both academic progress and personal balance. With steady engagement and intentional planning, students are better positioned to make the most of the semester ahead at Miva Open University.

The start of a new academic session at Miva Open University always comes with a mix of anticipation and adjustment. For both fresh men and returning students, the semester briefing serves as a roadmap for setting expectations, clarifying academic priorities, and highlighting what will define the months ahead. Beyond timetables and course outlines, it is a moment to reset mentally and approach learning with purpose in a digital-first environment.

This semester, students can expect a stronger emphasis on structured online engagement. Lectures, assessments, and collaborative activities are designed to encourage consistency rather than last-minute learning. While flexibility remains one of Miva’s core strengths, students are reminded that online learning still requires discipline, time management, and active participation to truly succeed.

Academically, the focus is on clarity and access. Course materials are expected to be more streamlined, with lecturers providing guided resources that support independent study. Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves early with the learning portal, assessment schedules, and communication channels to avoid unnecessary setbacks as the semester progresses.

Support systems also play a central role this session. From academic advisers to course representatives and discussion forums, Miva continues to emphasize that students are not learning in isolation. The briefing reinforces the importance of asking questions early, engaging peers, and making use of available resources to enhance understanding and confidence.

Ultimately, this new semester is about growth, both academically and personally. Whether you are navigating your first semester or building on previous experience, the goal is simple: stay engaged, stay organized, and remain open to learning in new ways. With the right mindset and commitment, the semester ahead holds significant potential for progress at Miva Open University.

Miva Open University has introduced Miva Save, a new financial support initiative designed to help students better manage and plan their academic expenses. The initiative reflects the institution’s growing focus on student welfare, recognizing that financial stability is an important factor in academic success, particularly within a digital-first learning environment.

The launch of Miva Save comes at a time when many students are navigating the challenges of balancing tuition payments with other personal and professional responsibilities. By encouraging structured and intentional saving, the initiative aims to reduce the pressure associated with lump-sum payments and last-minute financial strain. It positions proactive financial planning as a core part of the student experience at Miva.

According to the university’s vision, Miva Save is not just about easing payments but about cultivating responsible financial habits among students. The initiative aligns with Miva’s broader commitment to accessibility and sustainability in higher education, ensuring that students can remain focused on their studies without constant concern over funding obstacles.

Beyond its practical benefits, Miva Save also signals a shift in how universities engage with student needs. Rather than limiting support to academic delivery alone, Miva Open University is taking steps to address the wider realities of student life. This approach reinforces the idea that learning outcomes are closely tied to financial and emotional well-being.

As Miva Open University continues to expand its offerings and student population, initiatives like Miva Save highlight its intent to create a supportive and forward-thinking academic community. The program stands as an example of how institutions can innovate not only in teaching methods, but also in the systems that help students thrive throughout their academic journey.

As Miva Open University continues to grow, so does the size and strength of its student community. With the S’24 cohort expanding rapidly, the former WhatsApp group could no longer accommodate the increasing number of students joining the conversation. To ensure no one is left out and communication remains seamless, the cohort has officially moved to Telegram.

This transition allows the S’24 community to reach more students at once, share important updates efficiently, and create a more organized space for academic discussions, announcements, and peer support. Telegram’s capacity makes it a better fit for a fast-growing cohort, ensuring that every student stays informed and connected without the limitations experienced on WhatsApp.

All S’24 students are encouraged to join the new Telegram channel to stay up to date with cohort-wide information and ongoing conversations.

You can join the official Miva S’24 Telegram channel here:

👉https://t.me/+QIXpKqOMP8Q5YTk0T

This move marks another step in strengthening collaboration and communication within the Miva student community and in the end, facilitating information transmission like never before.

Cybersecurity is one of the most talked-about careers in tech today, yet for many people, it remains wrapped in mystery. Beyond the job titles and certifications, there’s a simple question most aspiring professionals want answered: what does a real day in cybersecurity actually look like?

That question is at the heart of Inside Career and Tools, a virtual session designed to strip away the buzzwords and replace them with honest, experience-driven conversations from people actively working and learning in the field.

Rather than presenting cybersecurity as a one-size-fits-all path, this session explores the diversity of roles within the industry and how different journeys can still lead to impact. From students building their foundations to analysts defending systems in real time, the event brings together voices that reflect the many entry points into cybersecurity.

Participants will hear from Daramola David Draemond, a cybersecurity student with hands-on exposure to API Development Security and Operations and certified under ISC2 CC, who represents the growing wave of learners deliberately positioning themselves for industry relevance. Alongside him is Blessing Isaiah, a Cybersecurity Analyst offering insight into professional practice, decision-making, and the realities of protecting systems beyond textbooks.

The conversation evolves with Kikile Rejoice, a SOC Analyst whose work revolves around monitoring, detecting, and responding to threats as they happen, and Azubuike Blossom, who brings a multidisciplinary angle by combining cybersecurity knowledge with web design expertise. Guiding the discussion is Fashipe Dare Ayo Marcelo, ensuring the session remains practical, engaging, and grounded in real experience.

What makes Inside Career and Tools stand out is its focus on authenticity. Attendees won’t just hear about job titles, they’ll learn how people entered the field, the skills that mattered most at different stages, the mistakes they learned from, and the tools that are actually used on the job. It’s a conversation about clarity, not hype, aimed at helping participants better understand where they fit and how to move forward.

The session will take place on January 31st, 2026, at 12 PM, and will be held virtually via Google Meet. Interested participants can join directly using this link:

👉https://meet.google.com/nqt-gkpj-mbh

For anyone considering cybersecurity, already studying it, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, Inside Career and Tools offers a rare opportunity to see the field clearly, meet the roles as they truly exist, and understand the tools that shape the work.

The Miva student community came alive during the recently held Community Awards, hosted live on Google Meet, on the 21st of December, 2025. Beyond the excitement and virtual applause, the event served a deeper purpose: recognising effort, consistency, creativity, and the spirit of togetherness that defines life at Miva. The awards reminded everyone that learning at Miva goes beyond academics; it is also about community, contribution, and character.

In the lighter moments of the evening, the Meme Lord/Queen award brought laughter to the spotlight. This category celebrated humour and creativity within the community, with Essien Emmanuella Joseph (May 2025 Cohort) emerging as the winner for consistently keeping fellow students entertained and engaged.

Friendship and connection were honoured through the Besties of the Year award, which recognised a duo whose bond and positive energy stood out across the community. This year, the award went to John James and Babajide Ogunkoya (Johnnie Walker & Beejay), whose friendship has been marked by visibility, support, and shared enthusiasm.The Student Couple of the Year award celebrated love and positive presence within the Miva space. Favour and Fredrick (Nova & Fred) took home the award, recognised for their connection and the warmth they bring to the community.

Visibility and engagement were key themes in several categories. The Most Popular Student of the Year, Most Active Online Student, Student Content Creator of the Year, Most Supportive Student of the Year, Student Mentor of the Year, and ultimately Miva Star of the Year awards were all won by Akinmulewo Abigail Blessing (September 2025 Cohort). Her repeated recognition reflected consistent participation, leadership, content creation, mentorship, and a strong commitment to uplifting others within the Miva community.

Academic collaboration was also celebrated through the Best Study Group award, which went to the Public Health Study Group for its consistency, teamwork, and support in helping members better understand course content. In the same spirit of collective effort, the Most Active Club of the Year award was presented to the Miva Health and Safety Club, recognised for its steady engagement and impactful activities throughout the year.
Departmental involvement did not go unnoticed. The Most Active Department of the Year award was won by BSc. Public Health, highlighting strong participation, student engagement, and a vibrant academic community.

Staff contributions were equally appreciated. The Success Advisor of the Year award went to Favour Anyanwu, recognised for consistent guidance and support, while the Lecturer of the Year award was presented to Dr. Emeka Ogbuju, applauded for engaging classes, clarity, and student support.

The celebration also featured the Miss & Mr September 2025 awards, recognising standout students within the cohort. Akinmulewo Abigeal Blessing was crowned Miss September 2025, while Aikulola Kayode emerged as Mr September 2025, both acknowledged for their presence, engagement, and positive influence.

Beyond the winners and titles, the Miva Community Awards were ultimately about appreciation and motivation. Every student who participated in voting, supported their peers, or was nominated played a role in making the event meaningful. Recognition may have gone to a few, but the effort, growth, and potential extend across the entire community.

As Miva looks ahead to the coming year, the awards serve as encouragement for students to stay engaged, contribute boldly, and continue striving for excellence.

Whether recognized this year or not, every student has the opportunity to show up stronger, more involved, and more impactful in the year ahead.