Varsity, Microsoft ADC Update Computer Science Curriculum for Industry Relevance
The Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC) and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) have completed a comprehensive review of the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Bachelor of Computer Technology curriculum.
The aim of the review was to make the curriculum more relevant to industry demands and better prepare students for the rapidly changing technology landscape. The updated curriculum is expected to be implemented for the September 2023 intake of students.
The curriculum review process is part of the ADC’s broader goal of catalyzing digital transformation in Kenya by providing opportunities for skill and practical knowledge acquisition. The ADC aims to equip Kenyans with the necessary skills to be competitive in the digital industry.
The reviewed curriculum focuses on practical skill development and aims to simulate real-world experiences within the classroom. It also introduces new and innovative concepts, as well as industry-standard tools at the educational level, to improve students’ familiarity with them as they enter the workplace.
Catherine Muraga, Managing Director of Microsoft ADC, expressed delight in partnering with JKUAT in the curriculum review process. She highlighted the contribution of Microsoft’s experts, who provided specialized knowledge to ensure that students are prepared for the tech industry and are exposed to improved standards of teaching.
The curriculum review is aligned with the Kenyan government’s national digitization agenda, as reflected in the Kenya National Digital Master Plan launched last year. One of the critical pillars of the master plan is to improve digital skills by building the capacity of at least 10,000 ICT professionals with high-level skills.
The curriculum review process has involved insights and recommendations from experienced industry experts, adding significant value to classroom instruction.
Dr. Lawrence Nderu, Chairman of the Department of Computing at JKUAT, expressed appreciation for the extensive review process and the contributions from industry experts. He emphasized the integration of practical skills building and theoretical understanding in the updated curriculum, which aims to provide students with best-in-class education as they prepare for success in the technology industry.
Overall, the collaboration between Microsoft ADC and JKUAT in the curriculum review process is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of education and skill development for students pursuing Computer Science and Computer Technology courses at JKUAT.
By aligning the curriculum with industry demands and incorporating practical experiences, the updated curriculum aims to better prepare students for the dynamic and evolving technology landscape, ultimately contributing to the digital transformation goals of Kenya.
Varsity, Microsoft ADC Update Computer Science Curriculum for Industry Relevance