The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially approved the commencement of the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD) programme following the completion of the required processes. This announcement was made in the Declaration of Effectiveness signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.
Dr. Alausa explained that the NERD Programme is a national technological tool aimed at streamlining the management of education data, academic records, and knowledge across Nigeria’s higher education institutions. The programme, developed through extensive consultations with stakeholders, is jointly owned by post-secondary schools, regulatory bodies like the National University Commission (NUC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), as well as the National Library of Nigeria (NLN). It also involves collaboration with the private sector.
The NERD Programme applies to all accredited educational institutions in Nigeria, irrespective of ownership—whether public, private, civilian, or military. This includes universities, nursing schools, agricultural colleges, and other post-secondary education providers. The programme seeks to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign entities for the storage, preservation, and verification of academic data, thereby addressing national security concerns and preventing capital flight.
A significant aspect of the NERD Programme is the introduction of the National Credential Number (NCN), which will be linked to a QR code on certificates, diplomas, and transcripts issued by accredited institutions. This new system will make credentials instantly verifiable. Additionally, a mandatory deposit of final academic reports into a central national database, along with anti-plagiarism checks, will be required for all students.
The system also mandates the creation of a National Student Number, which will track students’ academic progress from admission through to graduation. This new digital framework will curb academic fraud and ensure the authenticity of academic credentials, preventing issues like fake degrees and unearned honors.
In addition, the NERD programme will introduce several other services aimed at improving the education sector. These include the establishment of a National Repository of Knowledge for the deposit of academic projects, thesis, and dissertations, as well as the National Credential Verification Centre to combat qualification fraud. The system will also create a national database for high-impact journals, offering Nigerian academics an alternative to foreign journal indexes and facilitating career advancement.
The NERD initiative is fully funded by the private sector, with a projected budget of $68.8 million. To ensure smooth implementation, a Governing Council has been set up, with the Minister of Education serving as Chairman, and members drawn from key educational bodies and institutions.
Dr. Alausa concluded by expressing optimism about the transformative impact of the NERD Programme on Nigeria’s education system. He urged the public and educators to embrace the change, emphasizing that the system will enhance the quality and integrity of education in the country. The programme is set to take effect nationwide on February 4, 2025.
