Open University of Kenya (OUK) Launched; Curriculum, Courses Offered
Kenya’s first open university has opened after the previous administration abandoned the initiative due to financial constraints.
On Thursday, August 3, President William Ruto granted a charter to the Open University of Kenya (OUK) in Konza Technology City, Machakos County.
Ruto also appointed James Mwangi, the CEO of Equity Group and a philanthropist, as chancellor.
Here is important information about the OUK:
What does Open University mean?
Open universities are institutions of higher education that offer courses to individuals who may not have the opportunity to attend physical classes.
Open universities provide distance learning courses that students from all corners of the globe can access.
How Did It Start?
The OUK became operational after the Kenyan parliament approved the Draft Charter for the Establishment of the Open University of Kenya.
Additionally, OUK was included in the recommendations made by the Presidential Working Group on Education Reform. Professor Raphael Munavu headed the committee.
It was established in accordance with the Universities Act of 2012, which allows for the establishment of a specialized university to offer courses on e-learning platforms.
Prior to 2010, when Mwai Kibaki was president, there were prior attempts to establish the institution. The preparations failed due to a lack of resources.
Organization of the University
Similar to other universities, the institution will be led by a Vice-Chancellor who will be responsible for its daily operations.
Additionally, the VC will have Deputy Vice-Chancellors, a Senate, a Council, and student organizations.
The draft regulations state, “The funds of the University shall consist of such sums as may be granted to the University by the exchequer and such monies or assets as may accrue to or vest in the University in the performance of its functions under this Charter and the Statutes.”
Curriculum at OUK
There are four divisions at the university, including Science and Technology, Education, Economics and Business, and Agriculture.
The preponderance of the seven courses listed by OUK are degree programs and postgraduate courses.
Bachelor of Data Science, Bachelor of Economics and Statistics, Bachelor of Science in Business and Entrepreneurship, Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, and Bachelor of Technology Education are among the degree programs offered.
Postgraduate Diplomas in Leadership and Accountability and Learning Design and Technology are additionally provided.
Regarding fees, the institution has not yet specified the course fees and additional costs. However, the cost is anticipated to be less than that of other universities.
Open University of Kenya (OUK) Launched; Curriculum, Courses Offered
