University of Nairobi Open, Distance and e-Learning , ODeL, has launched 22 academic programs that has since allowed students to access University education globally without ever stepping within University precincts. The launch took place today on June 6, 2019 at the Chandaria Auditorium.
Speaking during the launch, the University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mbithi said experiential learning is the way to go. “We must embrace experiential learning. We must include technology in the teaching and learning as we aim at reaching students across the globe,” he said. Prof. Mbithi outlined that the University is ready to achieve great heights given the right team, networks, talent and human resources at its disposal.
He assured the team working at the ODeL Campus of the University Management’s support in their endevour to enrich university education with technological advancement. “We are going to infuse these teaching methods in all our programs. We shall continue to support you. We shall continue to encourage networks and partnerships. Experiential learning is the way to go for all programs, “he said.
ODeL Campus Director, Christopher Gakuo, outlined the mandate of online education as to ‘support, guide and facilitate programs to integrate e-learning in their courses’, he said. He elaborated that their goal is to transform teaching and learning through development of standardized course content. He challenged the university to embrace technological advancement like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and internet of things in their teaching and learning to improve the quality of education. “All these will help in the digitization of teaching and learning as the brick and wall classroom model of teaching may not survive for long.
Africa Womens Studies Center ( AWSC) is among the Schools in the University of Nairobi that have been quick in embracing the program and is currently enjoying its benefits as they have been able to attract students from the African continent. Staff are able to deliver the lectures using technology and students doing assignments and exams through video conference facilities without ever coming to class. “ We have students from Nigeria and Malawi. They are able to do their assignments and defense though a video conference. It is a good process, the University should invest in it,” said Prof. Wanjiku Kabira, Director, African Center of Women Studies.
Going forward, all University of Nairobi programs will have an e-learning component to enable students share experiences with other students across the globe.
