Open University of Kenya (OUK) Launches China-Africa Digital Learning Hub.
The Open University of Kenya (OUK), in partnership with the Open University of China and Donghua University, has launched two pioneering digital education centres. These initiatives aim to transform digital learning accessibility across Africa.
The newly introduced Open Learning Center Future Academy Programme and the China-Africa Regional Cooperation Center for Digital Education will play a key role in enhancing educational opportunities.
Their purpose is to develop both academic and non-academic programmes, support staff training, and facilitate joint course offerings, reinforcing OUK’s leadership in digital education.
This collaboration seeks to bring state-of-the-art online learning resources to Africa, broadening access for millions. The initiative will promote resource-sharing, technical cooperation, and the creation of new courses, ultimately fostering educational equity and driving regional economic progress.
By integrating advanced digital tools, the programme will provide an inclusive and effective learning environment that meets the growing demand for skilled professionals across various sectors.
During the launch, OUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. Elijah Omwenga emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that it will greatly influence academic growth and capacity development.
He highlighted that the initiative extends beyond infrastructure, as it will enhance human capital, improve digital skills, and set a precedent for future education collaborations between China and Africa.
Dr. Zhao Wang from Donghua University underscored the transformative impact of these centers, noting that cutting-edge digital technology will remove geographical obstacles and enable students across Africa to receive top-tier education.
Kenya’s Role in the Initiative
The launch forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen China-Africa ties in digital education. Dr. Xiangxu Mingwei from the Open University of China recognized Kenya’s central role in this endeavour.
She reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering high-quality Chinese educational resources nationwide through OUK.
To further improve learning experiences, the Open University of China has developed an international online teaching platform offering a diverse selection of courses, including the widely popular “Future Chinese” programme.
OUK Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Carolyn Omulando, commended all stakeholders involved in realizing this vision.
She described the establishment of the China-Africa Regional Cooperation Centre for Digital Education as a significant milestone and expressed pride in OUK’s role as its host. She further highlighted that this is the first such center in Africa, setting a precedent for future developments.
The Kenya-based center is expected to serve as a model for similar institutions across the continent, with plans underway to establish another in North Africa.
The Open University of China has already set up 32 Open Learning Centers in 27 countries, including 22 across African nations such as Zambia, Tanzania, Benin, and South Africa.
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As a key hub for digital education in East Africa, the new centre symbolizes a long-term commitment to collaboration and sustainability in digital learning.
The partnership was officially sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September 2024 during the 1st Exchange Mechanism Conference of the China-Africa Consortium of Universities and the China-Africa Higher Education Dialogue in Beijing, China.
Open University of Kenya (OUK) Launches China-Africa Digital Learning Hub.
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