Technology is continuously streamlining the smooth learning in universities and institutions of higher learning. This was the testimony of senior officials from Bugema University, Kampala Uganda and Kenyatta University, who made excellent presentations on e-learning and the use of Smart Card technology respectively at the CIO 100 Symposium.
 

Robert Nkambwe the ICT Manager of Bugema University said the University is reaping the benefits of ICT their e- learning platform.

“Our e–learning platform is open source based system and provides an environment for students  to attend classes on a virtualized space”, says Mr Nkambwe. With the university numerous branches all over Uganda, registered students who log in for online classes are able to save on transport cost. Moreover, there is no travel risks on students who avoid physical classes located in far situated campuses in the country.

How does this system work! Based on the internet, new students have to register and get verified as bonafide members of the university. The registration process provides for different levels of students management and administrative controls. For instance students can only attend classes they have registered for, and the teachers are able to edit and administer their course content.

With the use of computer aided touch pads and light pens, tutors can give full explanations especially on mathematical and diagram based concepts.

The University enjoys the benefits of this open source solution, which has no vendor lock-in issues. A wider participation in the learning sessions, and the students also find these classes fun and interesting.

Kenyatta University, on the other hand, has deployed a Smart Card project that has enabled the University to control access to its services. Money is loaded into the smart cards using an Mpesa platform which enable students have access to the library, computer labs, health facilities, hostels and the lecture halls.

Macharia Gichogu, the ICT Director spearheaded all the IT projects that form the backbone where this system lies. The University has laid a fiber optic cable ring around the university that provides connectivity and a backhaul to the university's multitude hotspots.

“As a university, we have experienced a 162.5% ICT growth since the beginning of this initiative”, says Macharia Gichogu.The university set aside a budget of KSh 57 million for this ongoing project to make sure the University is ICT-enabled.

Technology is continuously streamlining the smooth learning in universities and institutions of higher learning. This was the testimony of senior officials from Bugema University, Kampala Uganda and Kenyatta University, who made excellent presentations on e-learning and the use of Smart Card technology respectively at the CIO 100 Symposium.

Robert Nkambwe the ICT Manager of Bugema University said the University is reaping the benefits of ICT through their e- learning platform.