By Ephraim Oseji

In today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, universities are increasingly measured not only by academic excellence but by their ability to produce industry-ready graduates equipped with practical skills and leadership capacity. Akpaka Collins Chidindu exemplifies this new generation of professionals emerging from Nigeria’s education landscape.

A final-year Computer Science student at Miva Open University, Collins has distinguished himself academically, maintaining an exceptional CGPA of 4.91 while building real-world experience across sectors including artificial intelligence, fintech, edtech, logistics, mobility, and e-commerce. Alongside his studies, he serves as a Research Assistant in the School of Computing, contributes to innovation initiatives, and represents the university as a Student Ambassador.

Beyond the classroom, Collins is a recognised conference speaker and the President of the Miva Innovation Hub, where he leads collaborations between students and industry leaders from organisations such as Google and Interswitch. His journey reflects how flexible, future-focused education can empower young professionals to learn, lead, and thrive simultaneously.

In this interview, Collins shares his experience studying at Miva Open University, how its flexible learning model supported his career development, and why Miva continues to shape the next generation of technology leaders in Nigeria.

You’re currently studying Computer Science at Miva Open University  and maintaining a strong academic record. What stands out most about Miva’s learning model compared to traditional universities?

What really stands out is how practical and future-focused learning is at Miva. It’s not just about theory or passing exams. The courses are designed around real-world problems, so you’re constantly thinking like a builder and problem-solver.

Unlike traditional systems where employability feels like an afterthought, Miva embeds practical skills directly into the curriculum. For me, working as a Product Manager while studying, I could immediately apply what I learned in class to real projects at work, from product strategy to user research and technical decisions. It really bridges the gap between school and industry.

Many students struggle to balance school with work. How has Miva’s flexibility supported your career journey?

The flexibility at Miva is very intentional. It allows you to build your career while still excelling academically. I currently work as a Product Manager and Research Assistant in a major e-commerce company, and Miva’s learning structure made that possible.

Instead of seeing work as a distraction, the system encourages you to integrate both. I was applying classroom knowledge in real time, working with teams, products, and users. In today’s fast-paced tech world, waiting until after school to gain experience isn’t realistic, and Miva truly understands that.

You’ve worked across industries like AI, fintech, logistics, and e-commerce. How has your education at Miva influenced your approach?

One thing I’ve learned is that good product thinking cuts across industries. It’s about understanding users, identifying real problems, and building scalable solutions.

Miva’s Computer Science programme emphasises systems design, applied computing, and problem-solving rather than rote learning. That foundation made it easier for me to transition between sectors and still deliver value. Miva didn’t just teach me how to code; it taught me how to think, adapt, and innovate.

 Let’s talk about Artificial Intelligence. How do you see AI shaping Nigeria’s tech ecosystem in the coming years?

In the next few years, AI will significantly reshape Nigeria’s SaaS space, especially in automation, personalisation, and accessibility. We’ll see more local tech products using AI to solve everyday Nigerian problems, from finance to logistics and education.

What will really matter is talent, people who understand both the technology and the local context. My exposure to AI, combined with Miva’s forward-looking curriculum, has helped me think critically about responsible and impactful innovation.

Some people still have misconceptions about open and online universities. What’s your take on that?

A lot of people assume open universities lack rigour or real-world relevance, but my experience proves otherwise. Studying at Miva requires discipline, accountability, and initiative.

While studying, I’ve been able to work in top organisations, co-author research papers, and speak at national conferences. Miva rewards curiosity and execution. It’s not about the mode of education, but how well learning aligns with today’s realities, and Miva does that exceptionally well.

You’ve also grown as a public speaker and researcher. How did Miva support that?

 Miva’s ecosystem really encourages students to go beyond just learning to actually contributing. I was supported to speak at the National Smart Innovation Conference in Abuja and co-author a research paper with my Head of Department and other academics.

Miva creates opportunities for students to be visible, supported, and challenged to lead conversations that matter, and that exposure has opened many doors for me.

Looking ahead, what are you focused on professionally?

Right now, I’m focused on building impactful products at scale, especially solutions that expand access to technology, education, and economic opportunities for Nigerian youth.

Nigeria has incredible talent, but there are gaps in infrastructure, execution, and mentorship. I want to be part of initiatives that close those gaps through thoughtful innovation and product development.

Finally, what advice would you give young Nigerians considering Computer Science but worried about employability?

I would strongly recommend Miva. The university is designed to prepare students for work, not just certificates.

You’re encouraged to gain experience early, build real projects, and engage with industry. That’s what employers value today. If you’re proactive, disciplined, and curious, Miva provides the platform to turn potential into a real opportunity.