Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Centre for Distance Learning (CDL) at Bayero University Kano is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal data in compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) 2019 and the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you interact with our services, including our website, application portal, and learning platform.

We process personal data lawfully, fairly, and transparently, ensuring it is collected for specific, legitimate purposes and protected against unauthorized access or misuse.

2. Information We Collect

We collect the following categories of personal data:

• Personal Identification Information: Name, date of birth, gender, nationality, contact details (email, phone number, address), and identification documents (e.g., O'Level certificates, JAMB results).
• Educational and Professional Data: Academic records, qualifications, employment history (for certain programs), and application details.
• Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and usage data when you visit our website or platform.
• Payment Information: Bank details or payment card information (processed securely via third-party providers).
• Sensitive Data: Where necessary (e.g., for accommodations), health or disability information, with explicit consent.

Data is collected directly from you (e.g., via forms) or automatically (e.g., cookies).

3. How We Use Your Information

We process your data based on lawful grounds such as consent, contract performance, legal obligations, or legitimate interests. Purposes include:

• Processing applications and admissions.
• Providing educational services, including course access and assessments.
• Communicating updates, newsletters, or support.
• Improving our services through analytics.
• Complying with legal requirements (e.g., NUC reporting).

We minimize data collection to what is necessary and obtain consent where required.

4. Data Sharing and Transfers

We may share data with:

• Affiliated entities (e.g., Bayero University departments).
• Service providers (e.g., payment processors, IT vendors) under strict data processing agreements.
• Regulatory bodies (e.g., NUC, NITDA) as required by law.

Data transfers outside Nigeria (if any) will use adequacy decisions, standard contractual clauses, or other NDPR-approved safeguards to ensure protection.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect data, including encryption, access controls, firewalls, and regular audits. In case of a data breach, we will notify affected individuals and NITDA within 72 hours, as required by NDPR.

6. Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined, or as required by law (e.g., academic records for 7 years post-graduation). Data is securely deleted or anonymized thereafter.

7. Your Rights

As a data subject under NDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your data.
• Rectify inaccurate data.
• Erase data (right to be forgotten, subject to legal obligations).
• Restrict or object to processing.
• Data portability.
• Withdraw consent at any time.
• Lodge complaints with NITDA.

To exercise these rights, contact our Data Protection Officer (DPO) at dpo@bukcdl.edu.ng. We respond within one month.

8. Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies for functionality, analytics, and personalization. You can manage preferences via your browser. For details, see our Cookie Policy.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in practices or regulations. Updates will be posted here with the effective date. Continued use constitutes acceptance.

10. Contact Us

For questions or concerns, contact:

• Data Protection Officer
• Email: cdl@buk.edu.ng
• Phone: +234 814 003 6765
• Address: Centre for Distance Learning, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria

You may also contact NITDA at info@nitda.gov.ng for complaints.