HOD's Welcome Address
With great joy and pride, I welcome you to the newly established Department of Foreign Languages at the National Open University of Nigeria. This department is a vibrant home for Foreign Languages, and it represents a gateway to global opportunities, cultural enrichment, and lifelong learning. We are excited to have you join our community of learners who are passionate about exploring the beauty and power of languages. Our department proudly offers programmes in French (BA French), Arabic (BA Arabic), and Kiswahili. These languages are not only open doors to communication but also bridges to diplomacy, international business, education, and cultural exchange in today’s interconnected world.
Born out of the restructuring of the former Linguistics, Foreign and Nigerian Languages Department, our new department stands as a beacon of international engagement where the beauty of language meets the richness of culture.
We are committed to nurturing students who will not only master these languages but also appreciate the diverse cultures and histories they embody.
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Through NOUN’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system, we provide flexible, learner-focused education that empowers you to balance your studies with other life commitments. While this mode of learning requires resilience and discipline, it also offers unmatched opportunities for growth. To support you, we have prepared handbooks and resources that contain essential information about the university, the department, and the programmes we offer.
Our goal is to help you develop linguistic competence, intercultural sensitivity, and analytical skills that will prepare you to excel in diverse professional and academic fields. Whether you aspire to careers in diplomacy, international business, education, or postgraduate studies, we believe you have all it takes to succeed.
We look forward to celebrating your achievements and watching you flourish as ambassadors of language and culture. Welcome to a department where languages come alive, and futures are shaped.
Dr. Uzoma Patience Agwu
Head, Department of Foreign Languages
Email: uagwu@noun.edu.ng
Phone: +234 803 772 4031
History of the Department
At its …….. Meeting of Senate, held on Wednesday, 5th August 2026, the Senate of the National Open University of Nigeria approved the unbundling of the former Department of Languages in the Faculty of Arts. From this restructuring, new departments were created to strengthen academic focus and delivery.
One of these is the Department of Foreign Languages, carved out of the former Linguistics, Foreign and Nigerian Languages Department. The Department now proudly offers undergraduate programmes in French (BA French), Arabic (BA Arabic), and Kiswahili.
Although newly established, the Department of Foreign Languages is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. We aim to build capacity and deliver quality programmes that will not only meet but surpass expectations. Within the coming years, we envision increased student enrolment, stronger academic collaborations, and a reputation as a leading centre for multilingual and multicultural education in Nigeria and beyond.
Our Vision
To be celebrated as the foremost centre for multilingual and multicultural education at the National Open University of Nigeria, empowering learners to connect, communicate, and thrive in a diverse and globalised world.
Our Mission
To provide flexible and accessible opportunities for learners to master French, Arabic, and Kiswahili, while nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and intercultural awareness. Our mission is to equip students with the linguistic and cultural competencies needed to excel in diplomacy, international business, education, and global citizenship.
Our Philosophy
We believe that every language is a bridge to understanding and collaboration. Our philosophy is to deliver functional, cost-effective, and learner-focused education that enhances communication skills, fosters cultural sensitivity, and promotes personal growth. By equipping students with practical proficiency in foreign languages, we prepare them to express themselves confidently, engage meaningfully with diverse communities, and achieve self-actualisation in the global context.
Why Choose Foreign Languages at NOUN?
- Global Relevance: In today’s interconnected world, multilingualism is a powerful asset. By studying French, Arabic, or Kiswahili, you gain access to international opportunities in diplomacy, business, education, and cultural exchange.
- Cultural Enrichment: Each programme immerses you in the rich traditions, histories, and literatures of diverse communities, helping you appreciate and engage with cultures beyond your own.
- Flexible Learning: Through NOUN’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system, you can pursue your studies at your own pace, balancing education with work and personal commitments.
- Career Opportunities: Our graduates are equipped with practical language skills and intercultural competence that open doors to careers in translation, international relations, academia, tourism, and beyond.
- Future Pathways: Whether you aspire to postgraduate studies or professional advancement, the Department of Foreign Languages provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning and global citizenship.
Our Programmes
B.A French
B.A Arabic Studies
B.A Kiswahili
Our Contact
Department Email Address
Email: uagwu@noun.edu.ng
Department Telephone Number
Telephone: +234 803 772 4031
WhatsApp: +234 803 772 4031