KAB Launches Centre of Competence in Digital Education with EPFL and UM6P

In an event held on 7^th February 2024, Kabale University proudly launched its Centre of Competence in Digital Education (C-CoDE), marking a significant stride towards revolutionizing learning and innovation in the region. The launch ceremony, held at the university premises in the university board, was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Mr. Brian Masiga, the CEO of RENUMESH Technologies, who attended as the chief guest. Among the distinguished guests were Hon. Dr. Nicholas Thaddeus Kamara, Kabale Municipality Member of Parliament, the Kabale District Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mr. Godfrey Nyakahuma, the District Education Officer, Representative of the District LCV Chairperson and members of the t university community.

Andres Gomez, a Swiss E-learning Specialist, expressed his unwavering belief in the project’s ability to fulfill its goals. He emphasized that the project is well-positioned to face and overcome any problems that may occur during its implementation.

Professor Joy Constance Kwesiga, Vice Chancellor of Kabale University, stressed the tremendous benefits the project is expected to provide, particularly for primary school teachers facing financial constraints. The initiative aims to provide critical support to these educators, allowing them to improve their skills and certifications despite limited resources.

In response to questions concerning the C-CoDE project’s expected impact on education at the school, Prof. Joy emphasized its already obvious influence on student experiences. She also stressed its potential to broaden the university’s reach beyond Kabale, reaching out to people throughout the Great Lakes region. Prof. Joy stressed the project’s transformative importance in allowing the university to contribute to greater societal change and growth.

Speaking during the inauguration, Hon. Dr. Nicholas Kamara, the local Member of Parliament, warmly welcomed the project, hailing it as a pivotal advancement for both education and the nation at large. He emphasized the profound impact digital education holds for the future, particularly within the IT industry, which he described as brimming with boundless opportunities and innovations.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the initiative, Hon. Dr. Kamara highlighted its potential to revolutionize teaching methods and positively influence students’ learning experiences. He expressed hope that the project would extend its benefits beyond the university campus, reaching and positively impacting the wider community. When asked about the government’s stance and commitment to supporting digitalization efforts nationwide, Hon. Dr. Kamara underscored Uganda’s proactive approach. He noted the government’s dedicated focus on sciences and information technology, exemplified by the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Additionally, he mentioned financial support provided through entities like NITA-Uganda, aimed at bolstering connectivity and digital access in schools across the country.

The Centre of Competence in Digital Education, a joint endeavor between Kabale University, EPFL (École Polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne) in Switzerland, and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Morocco, is part of the “Excellence in Africa” initiative. Kabale University emerged as one of the six African institutions selected to host this transformative initiative following a rigorous evaluation process.

EPFL’s contribution to the project includes establishing an E-learning laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art multimedia equipment at Kabale University. Additionally, capacity-building programs have been conducted to train university staff in online pedagogical engineering, digital studio production, and online course delivery.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding, the project has been running for two years, from June 2021 to June 2023, and is generously funded by UM6P and EPFL. Notably, 33 staff members underwent training in pedagogy, instructional design, and eLearning content development as part of the initiative. Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, a renowned institution in Morocco, has established itself as a key partner in the global education landscape, fostering collaborations with various stakeholders to drive innovation and excellence.

EPFL, known for its expertise in natural sciences and engineering, has made significant strides in fostering innovation, with a campus situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva.

The launch of the Centre of Competence in Digital Education at Kabale University heralds a new era of educational advancement, promising to empower learners and educators alike with cutting-edge tools and methodologies, ultimately shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

View more photos from the event here https://bit.ly/49sqi5k