Makerere University Launches Shs45.6 Billion E-Learning Initiative to Boost Access

Makerere University recently unveiled a major Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) project worth $12.2 million (Shs45.6 billion), designed to transform teaching methods and make higher education more accessible.

Funded through Uganda-South Korea bilateral ties by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the project encompasses a full university ODeL masterplan, construction of a cutting-edge e-learning center, and training for staff to adopt digital tools.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted how this reflects Korea’s confidence in Makerere’s academic prowess, promising boosts in learning, research, and innovation. On March 26, the university laid the foundation for a $3.7 million (Shs13.8 billion) ODeL building, set for completion in 22 months.

Deputy Vice Chancellor Sarah Ssali, standing in for Nawangwe, called it a pivotal new era, with commitments to lead ODeL excellence regionally. Project lead Henry Alinaitwe noted its expansion from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology to the whole institution, thanks to support from Korean partners.

ODeL enables flexible learning via tools like Zoom and Google Meet, blending live sessions with self-paced options. While Makerere has dabbled in e-learning before, inadequate infrastructure had limited growth.

KOICA’s Jihee Ahn emphasized the project’s role in sparking wider educational reforms, aligning with joint goals for digital advancement and skills building, especially for remote or time-strapped students.

This development is expected to enhance Uganda’s digital education capabilities significantly.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)