Challenges of Distance Learning Programme Management in National Open University Centres in Gombe State, North East Nigeria

This study investigates the management challenges of distance learning programme administration in National Open University of Nigeria study centres in Gombe State, North East Nigeria. NOUN's mandate to democratise access to higher education through open and distance learning makes effective centre management critical, particularly in educationally disadvantaged regions such as the North East. A descriptive survey design was employed with a sample of 40 centre managers, facilitators, and 120 registered students from NOUN study centres in Gombe, Billiri, and Kaltungo. A validated questionnaire and structured interview guide were used to collect data on managerial challenges. Findings identify inadequate tutorial staffing, unreliable internet connectivity for online component delivery, delayed course material distribution, and student dropout due to work-study conflicts as dominant challenges. Centre managers reported administrative overload due to limited institutional support staff. The study recommends that NOUN's national management enhance centre funding formulas, deploy digital platforms for material distribution, and establish peer mentor networks in North East centres to reduce dropout rates. Improved centre governance frameworks and regular management capacity workshops are also recommended. Keywords: distance learning management, NOUN study centres, Gombe State, open education, North East Nigeria