Open University of Kenya Introduces New Job-Oriented Courses.
The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has expanded its academic offerings by introducing 10 new programmes designed to meet industry demands and technological advancements in the country.
The announcement took place at the university’s premises during an official unveiling ceremony, which was led by OUK Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Elijah Omwenga, on Monday.
The newly launched courses include Bachelor of Agricultural Technology and Food Systems, Bachelor of Economics and Data Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master in Learning Sign and Technology.
Additionally, students can now pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing, a Master of Data Science, a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration.
Professor Omwenga highlighted that OUK initially began with seven programmes but has now expanded to offer ten more academic courses.
He also revealed plans to introduce eight additional professional development courses, including Mental Health Awareness, Gender and Diversity, Emotional Intelligence, Corporate Governance, Business Modelling for Entrepreneurs, Accountability Fundamentals, E-learning Essentials for Online Engagement, and Online Assessment.
Enhancing Student Enrolment and Digital Education
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that these programmes would not only enhance student enrolment but also solidify OUK’s reputation as a pioneer in digital education.
This strategic expansion is expected to significantly influence the future of higher education in Kenya by providing flexible and high-quality learning opportunities.
During the event, he acknowledged that financial challenges have posed difficulties in recruiting and compensating expert faculty members.
He stated that the institution has struggled to pay professors at market rates due to high costs. As a result, the university had to negotiate mutually agreeable terms to ensure their participation in developing OUK’s academic programmes.
However, Professor Omwenga expressed confidence that the financial constraints would be alleviated by the anticipated increase in student enrolment through the newly introduced courses.
Market-Oriented Curriculum Development
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Carolyne Omulando, explained that extensive consultations were conducted while developing the new programmes to ensure alignment with market needs. She emphasized that the courses were designed to keep pace with evolving technological trends and employment demands in the country.
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Professor Omulando reiterated OUK’s dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education through digital platforms, reinforcing its role in revolutionizing higher education in Kenya.
Since its establishment in 2023, OUK has enrolled 2,500 students. With the introduction of these new academic programmes, the institution expects a significant rise in student numbers in the near future.
Open University of Kenya Introduces New Job-Oriented Courses.
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