The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has launched 10 new academic programmes to cater for emerging industry needs and technological advancement in the country.
The announcement was made at the institution’s premises during the unveiling ceremony presided over by OUK Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Elijah Omwenga on Monday.
Among the academic courses that have been introduced are Bachelor of Agricultural Technology and Food Systems, Bachelor of Economics and Data Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master in Learning Sign and Technology.
Others are 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.
“We started with seven programmes, and now we are launching 10 academic programmes. Also, we intend to introduce 8 other professional development courses like 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,” said Professor Omwenga during the launch of the programmes.
“The programmes will also increase student enrolment and strengthen OUK’s position as a leader in digital education, hence creating greater impact in shaping the future of higher education in Kenya,” he added.
During the function, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that the university faces financial constraints that have hindered the institution from paying and hiring more experts.
“We have faced challenges with financial resources, especially when we have to pay the experts, and experts here are professors. We have not been able to pay them within the demands of market price because they are quite expensive. So we have had to go to mutual agreement so that they can participate in the formation of this university,” he added.
However, he noted that the financial challenge will be overcome by the new students who will enrol in the newly introduced programmes at the university.
Speaking at the same event, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Carolyne Omulando, said that there was wide consultation in developing the new programmes in a bid to align with the market demand in the country.
“We ensured that these programmes align with market demands and technological evolution. This commitment to relevance and quality underscores OUK’s dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education through digital learning, said Prof. Omulando.
The OUK has an enrolment of 2,500 students currently since its inception in 2023. However, the number of students is expected to increase after more learners join the new programmes.
By Albanus Kioko