University of Nairobi Embraces Digital Transformation with New ICT Systems
NAIROBI – In a significant move toward digitalization, the University of Nairobi (UoN) unveiled its advanced ICT systems in an event that underscores a broader push for technological integration within Kenyan higher education. The initiative, led by Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo of the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, aims to automate service provision and enhance the digital infrastructure across academic institutions nationwide.
According to Kenya News Agency, the deployment of the UoN ICT systems, celebrated under the theme ‘Making the University Vibrant and Sustainable through Digitalization,’ marks a pivotal step in aligning educational services with the government’s digital transformation agenda. This alignment is evident in the launch of 155 Wi-Fi hotspots at the university, part of a broader ministry effort to establish 25,000 free Wi-Fi zones and roll out 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across Kenya. These efforts are intended to provide robust internet connectivity and support digital learning platforms, particularly benefiting students in university hostels.
The Ministry’s commitment extends beyond infrastructure to include the digitization of government and educational processes, ensuring that services are accessible online nationwide. With the introduction of the UoN ICT systems, which includes various modules like the financial management system and employment portal, the university sets a precedent for digital efficiency and innovation in Kenyan education.
The event also highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives to foster digital skills among the youth, such as the Jitume digital hub platform and partnerships aimed at connecting young Kenyans with digital job opportunities. Furthermore, Owalo’s call to action for the University of Nairobi to leverage these digital platforms to empower students financially reflects a forward-thinking approach to education and technology.
In his remarks, University of Nairobi Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama emphasized the institution’s role as a leader in adopting technological advancements, acknowledging the transformative potential of digitalization despite inherent challenges. The university’s proactive stance, supported by stakeholders like the Director of ICT Paul Kariuki, signifies a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the digital age.
The launch event, which also showcased the university’s data center initiatives focusing on data privacy and security, signifies a comprehensive strategy to ensure that the technological infrastructure not only supports academic and administrative functions but also adheres to the highest standards of data protection and cybersecurity.