Mount Kenya University (MKU) has intensified investments in technology to enhance educational delivery further and improve learning outcomes.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deogratius Jaganyi, says students and faculty enjoy the experience of using the cutting-edge technology that the university has integrated into teaching and learning.
“In the next five years, the university will expand its use of Artificial AI, immersive learning technologies, and data analytics,” says Prof Jaganyi.
He says the aim is to provide even more personalised, flexible, and engaging learning opportunities.
Consequently, the institution is implementing an Edu-Tech solution in partnership with Marwadi Technologies of India.
As a result of this partnership, the university will migrate from the Students Management Information System (SMIS), ERP and “My.MKU” to the more unified University Integrated Resource Platform (UnIRP) beginning mid this month.
Dr Ronald Maathai, Registrar, Academic Administration at MKU says that in January, 2025, MKU was appointed as the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-9 Hub Chair for Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
The university will serve in that capacity from January 2025 to December 2027. Goal 9 champions the building of resilient infrastructure, promotion of sustainable industrialisation, and the fostering of innovation.
“The institution also aspires to be a leader in University Digital Transformation. This is why we are migrating our systems,” he added.
The university Integrated Resource Platform (UnIRP) has been successfully implemented by other universities and institutions of higher learning.
The migration process will commence on 15th February, 2025 in a phased approach guided by an ICT steering Committee.
During the transition period, the old system will run concurrently with the new system until it is fully phased out.
“We are appealing to yourselves as university key stakeholders to support the transition process,” Dr Maathai said.
The key features of the new system include automated workflows for student management, finance and administration.
“We expect more efficient real-time data access and reporting as well as improved user experience for students, faculty and staff,” he added.
Interactive displays
Recently, MKU integrated the use of Interactive displays and smart classrooms to enhance learning experiences and elevate the e-learning and conference experience.
The university also intends to build Smart classrooms across the campuses and recording studios for content development.
The Chairman, Board of Directors and Founder, MKU, Prof Simon Gicharu, said the interactive displays will allow lecturers to incorporate a range of useful apps or teaching aids that support in simplifying different concepts in class, hence enabling lecturers to be more effective in training students virtually.
Handing over the displays to the Vice-Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi, the chairman said the newly acquired interactive displays that will be used to enhance lecturer-student interaction virtually. The 18 devices were acquired from China at a cost of Ksh 28 million.
Prof Gicharu said the traditional model of “brick and mortar universities” would most likely be replaced by open universities that offer programmes through virtual platforms and retain only small administrative offices.
“We need to ensure that we are alive to where the world is going, embrace technological transformations, and integrate digital technologies with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and optimize on the positive contribution to improve livelihoods,” he said.
According to the chairman, the digital transformation agenda will be embraced in all Open and Distance Electronic Learning (ODEL) platforms and that MKU students will be among the first in the country to benefit from this technology.
“We expect that these interactive displays will be fully integrated in our training in Thika main campus and also in all our campuses and ODEL centers. We are fully committed to ensure that our students have the best learning experience,” the chairman stated.
VC Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said it is time for MKU to fully embrace the fourth industrial revolution by entrenching technology mediated modalities of teaching and learning in order to meet the needs and expectations of the current generation.
“This is not just about keeping pace with global trends. It ensures that MKU remains competitive and provides its students with the most innovative and effective technological tools available,” he added.
Deliberate policies
MKU has policies that emphasise the integration of technology into both teaching and learning processes.
The objective is to enhance the accessibility of educational resources, promote digital literacy among students and faculty, and foster an environment where technology-driven solutions improve educational outcomes.
The policies also aim to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world, while enabling faculty to use modern tools to enhance their teaching methods.
Artificial intelligence
MKU has made signicant strides in incorporating AI and Machine Learning into its curriculum, particularly in courses related to computer science and IT.
Immersive Learning technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are used in specialised programmes like medicine and engineering, to simulate real-life scenarios and hands-on experiences.
Technologies such as VR and AR provide students with the ability to engage in experiential learning by simulating real-life scenarios in a controlled and safe environment.
Customised learning
Additionally, the institution has introduced AI-powered tools for personalised learning and assessment, which helps track student progress and provide customised learning paths based on individual needs.
“MKU uses data analytics tools to track student performance and engagement throughout their academic journey,” said the VC.
By monitoring factors like grades, attendance, and participation in online discussions, the university can identify students who may be struggling academically or facing personal challenges.
The system also provides early alerts to academic advisors, who can then intervene with targeted support, such as tutoring, aid assistance, or counselling.
This proactive approach helps minimise drop-out rates by addressing issues before they escalate.
“Students who join a university like MKU, where technology is pervasive, will be equipped with the digital skills necessary for success in the modern workplace,” says Prof Jaganyi.
Students have access to advanced learning tools, personalised instruction, and hands-on experiences through immersive technologies.
This also prepares them to work in a variety of industries that increasingly rely on technology for decision-making, innovation, and growth. Additionally, students benefit from flexible learning environments, such as online courses and digital collaboration tools that make learning more accessible and efficient.
Online studies
For students who’d prefer to study online, MKU offers a robust online learning platform designed to provide them with a seamless and interactive learning experience.
The platform includes features such as live video lectures, recorded materials, discussion forums, quizzes, and real-time assessments.
Additionally, MKU uses AI-powered tools to enhance the learning experience by offering personalised feedback.
