In a momentous occasion, Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede, the esteemed Foundation Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), was bestowed with the highest accolade from the Association of African Universities (AAU). On Tuesday, July 4, 2023, he received the distinguished award of "AAU Higher Ambassador for Open and Distance Learning" during the 22nd Conference of Rectors, Vice-Chancellors, and Presidents of African Universities (COREVIP 2023) in Windhoek, Namibia.

The AAU recognized Prof. Jegede for his exceptional contributions in advancing excellence in African higher education. Prof. Olusola Bandele Oyewole, the Secretary-General of AAU, expressed immense pride in honoring Prof. Jegede's remarkable support and unwavering dedication to the advancement of higher education across Africa.

Oyewole commended Prof. Jegede's passion, which serves as an inspiration to the entire academic community in Africa and beyond. AAU proudly appointed Prof. Jegede as the Higher Education Ambassador for Open and Distance Learning, acknowledging his outstanding leadership and extraordinary impact in the sector.

The association extended its deepest gratitude to Prof. Jegede, recognizing his significant achievements in fostering a vibrant and transformative higher education sector. They lauded him for his instrumental role in citing and establishing the headquarters of AAU in Ghana, a testament to his commitment and vision.

Throughout his distinguished career, Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede has held various prominent positions in different parts of the world, including Australia, Hong Kong, Ghana, and Nigeria. His wealth of experience and global perspective have undoubtedly contributed to his remarkable achievements and recognition within the academic community.

The honour bestowed upon Prof. Jegede by the AAU is not only a celebration of his personal accomplishments but also a testament to the positive impact he has made on the African higher education landscape. His exemplary leadership serves as a source of inspiration to educators, researchers, and students, both within Africa and beyond its borders.

As Prof. Jegede's influence continues to transcend boundaries, his dedication to advancing open and distance learning will undoubtedly shape the future of higher education in Africa.