Attention all students of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)! If you are currently enrolled in the GST 302 (Business Creation and Growth) course for the 2026_1 semester, it is time to shift into high gear. An internal memorandum from the South West Incubation Centre (SWIC), dated April 13th, 2026, has been released, detailing the physical presentation and grading schedule across various study centres in the South West region.
This course is a cornerstone of the NOUN curriculum, designed to foster entrepreneurial spirit and practical business planning skills among students. The presentation phase is the climax of your hard work, where your business ideas are scrutinized, graded, and potentially set on a path toward real-world incubation. Below is an extensive breakdown of everything you need to know about this memo, the schedule, and how to prepare for success.
Understanding the Internal Memo
The memorandum, signed by Dr. Oluwadamilare J. Amusa, the Coordinator of the South West Incubation Centre, serves as an official directive for the 2026_1 GST 302 presentation cycle. The document specifies that the upload of business plans and the commencement of the presentation window officially kicked off on Tuesday, 14th April 2026.
This date is significant because it marks the transition from the theoretical phase of the course to the practical assessment phase. For students, this means the portal is active, and the physical interaction with examiners is now imminent.
Comprehensive Presentation Schedule by Study Centre
The memo outlines a specific timetable for ten major study centres within the South West zone. It is crucial to identify your specific centre and the corresponding date and venue to avoid missing your grading window.
Key Takeaways from the Schedule:
The Early Starters: Lagos Mainland 1 students (DBI, Oshodi) are the first on the list, with their presentations starting today, April 14th.
The Hub of Activity: The Lagos Study Centre students will converge at the South West Incubation Centrelocated at
14/16 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island , on April 20th. This is the regional headquarters for entrepreneurship activities.Regional Spread: The schedule spans through late April and concludes in early May with Ado-Ekiti on the 5th of May. This staggered approach allows the grading team to move efficiently from one location to another.
Important Note on Virtual Presentations
A vital piece of information included in the memo is the provision for centres not listed in the table above. The coordinator stated:
"Please note that other Study Centres in South West not mentioned above will be attended to virtually."
If your study centre is in the South West but does not appear on the list (e.g., specific community centres or smaller hubs), do not panic. Your presentation will be conducted online. You should stay in close contact with your Study Centre Director or the ICT officer to receive the Zoom or Google Meet links required for your virtual grading session.
Essential Preparation Checklist for Students
The GST 302 presentation is more than just a talk; it is a professional pitch. Here is how you should prepare to ensure you secure high marks:
1. Confirm Your Upload Status
Before appearing at the venue, ensure that your business plan has been successfully uploaded to the GST portal. Without a successful upload, the examiners may not have a reference point to grade you. Double-check your profile to confirm that the "2026_1" session reflects your current submission.
2. Master Your Business Plan
The examiners will likely ask questions regarding your Executive Summary, Market Analysis, Financial Projections, and Operational Strategy. You should be able to explain how your business will make money and solve a specific problem in the Nigerian market.
3. Professionalism and Dressing
NOUN prides itself on producing professionals. Dress corporately. Whether you are presenting at DBI Oshodi or the Ado-Ekiti Study Centre, your appearance should reflect that of a serious entrepreneur. First impressions matter immensely in grading.
4. Hard Copies and Presentation Aids
Even though the world is digital, it is often wise to bring a few hard copies of your business plan and your student ID card. If you plan to use a slide deck (PowerPoint), ensure you have it on a flash drive and that you arrive early to check for technical compatibility at the venue.
The Role of the South West Incubation Centre (SWIC)
The SWIC is not just a grading body; it is a resource center meant to help NOUN students turn academic assignments into viable businesses. The fact that the Lagos Study Centre presentations are held at the Victoria Island Incubation Centre provides students with a unique opportunity to see the facilities available for business nurturing, including workspace and mentorship opportunities.
The coordinator, Dr. Amusa, and his team are looking for innovation. They aren't just checking boxes; they are looking for students who have genuine "Business Creation and Growth" potential.
Addressing Common Concerns
What if I miss my date? Missing your scheduled date is highly discouraged. The grading team moves from city to city. If you miss your slot, you may have to travel to another study centre (if permitted) or wait for a makeup window, which is never guaranteed.
Can I present at a different centre? Generally, you must present at the centre where you are registered. However, if there are extreme circumstances, you must seek written permission from the Incubation Centre Coordinator or your Study Centre Director immediately.
What happens in a virtual presentation? For those in the "virtual" category, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet background. Treat the camera as if you are looking the examiner in the eye.
Final Encouragement
The GST 302 course is one of the few units that directly prepares you for life after graduation. In an economy that rewards self-reliance and innovation, your business plan could be the blueprint for your future career.
Review the table above one more time. Set reminders on your phone for your specific date. Reach out to your fellow students to share resources and practice your pitches.
Congratulations on reaching this stage of the semester! The South West Incubation Centre is ready to see what the 2026_1 batch has to offer. Go out there and represent your study centre with pride and excellence!
Stay tuned to this blog for further updates on NOUN academic schedules, graduation lists, and portal guides.
Strictly for South West Centres