The National Open University of Nigeria has formalised a strategic partnership with the Tropics Derma Research and Training Institute to introduce structured certification programmes in tropical cosmetology, skincare science, and medical aesthetics in Nigeria.
Professor Ganiyat Adesina Uthman, Director of the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages at NOUN, described the collaboration as an important step in expanding research driven professional education within the university.
"This partnership strengthens our commitment to academic innovation and opens new opportunities for specialised training in an industry that continues to grow across Africa," Professor Adesina Uthman stated.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at NOUN's headquarters in Abuja through the university's Directorate of Advancement and Linkages, with Elite Beauty ITrends Ltd. serving as the implementing partner responsible for local programme coordination and execution.
Dr Edith F. Gibson, founder of the Tropics Derma Research and Training Institute, explained that the partnership represents an effort to formalise tropical skincare science within academic institutions whilst strengthening research and professional training.
"Tropical dermatological science requires specialised research and education that reflects the realities of climate, environment, and skin biology in regions like Africa. Collaborating with a university system like NOUN helps make that knowledge accessible to a wider professional community," Gibson stated.
The collaboration establishes an academic and professional framework for specialised training programmes, including Professional Tropical Cosmetics Esthetics, Tropical Cosmetology, Cosmetic Science, and dermatological research, areas increasingly recognised as critical to skincare innovation in equatorial regions.
TDRTI will provide the scientific curriculum structure, research methodologies, and professional training models for the programmes, with Dr Gibson, a medical esthetician and tropical skincare researcher, having spent more than 15 years studying dermatological conditions affecting melanin rich skin in tropical environments.
Her research includes the analysis of more than 100,000 skin samples across several African regions, contributing to a growing body of knowledge aimed at developing evidence based approaches to tropical dermatology and cosmetology.
NOUN will deliver the programmes through its Open and Distance Learning system and electronic learning platforms, enabling participants across Nigeria to access the certification courses remotely, with graduates receiving professional credentials in fields such as Professional Tropical Cosmetics Esthetics, Tropical Cosmetology, and Cosmetic Science.
The initiative is designed to address the growing demand for scientific expertise tailored to melanin rich skin and tropical climate conditions, fields that have historically received limited attention in mainstream dermatological education.
