Are Open Days in universities really relevant?

Sep 03, 2016

This is a new trend in Uganda’s universities. Such events are nowadays so often at Victoria University and the International University of East Africa

It is an Open Day at International University of East Africa (IUEA). The university has opened its doors to parents and prospective students. As they trickle in and gather in the wide corridors that separate the university's lecture rooms, so much about this international education institution begins to emerge.

But this is not just mere information; it is knowledge translated into ideas which once implemented, will serve the needs of any nation.

Students from faculties of Business, Engineering, Science and Technology are exhibiting different innovations based on what they have learnt in class.

At the Business exhibition, entrepreneurship is showcased in form of products like liquid soap, hair shampoo, hand cleansers and a service on branding. On the other hand, information Technology students showcase the different software such as student complaints desk that substitutes the old "Suggestion Box" system.

On the display at this university's Open Day, is a student networking system that does not require the use of internet.

At the Engineering exhibition, one particular young man's innovation stands out among the Electrical engineering students.

"This is a solar powered automatic irrigation system. It enables a farmer to water his plants in case of drought," Felix Lubega, a fourth year student says.

 

He explains that the battery is charged using solar energy which in turn pumps water to irrigate the farmland. This aids a farmer to have a good harvest even in a dry season.

The system has moisture sensors that are installed in the farmer's garden. Once the crops have enough water, the sensors switch off the water pumps to prevent power wastage.

Lubega's vision is to aid farmers especially in rural areas who cannot meet the high costs of using generators which run on fuel. Once implemented, he hopes his final year project can ensure food security in Uganda.

The need for solutions that tackle Uganda's unique problems and the demand for several skills in the labor market calls for more industrious and innovative minds nurtured from academic institutions.

What are open days?

Open days in universities- a time of excitement, wanting to present oneself in the best light and outshine one's competitors. That is what always goes on in institutions of higher learning.
But that's enough about the universities. The open day experience can also be useful to students and parents.

"Open days are much more important to universities now than ever before, owing to what is done on such days," says Haneem Atizoyo, the Dean of Studies at International University of East Africa. Students are checking out various academic and non-academic issues at the university.

This is a new trend in Uganda's universities. Such events are nowadays so often at Victoria University and the International University of East Africa.

Atizoyo says that, on such days, "Universities show parents, students and the entire public what the university entails and its potential in executing what it promises."

She adds that, "Open days are a vital part of the process of applying to university. A lot of students do not visit any of the universities from their list of top choices which can have an impact later on in their student life."

Open days are held throughout the year; usually a university will try to conduct an open day at least once every semester.

 

A former commissioner in the education ministry John Agaba says that, "Universities want to show you their best side. But when they open up, this is a chance to find out about their less pretty side, too. Students, use this chance and see if you deserve to be in that university or not."

As you stroll around campus and looking at halls, restaurants and lecture rooms, it can be easy to forget the real reason you are there; to get a degree.

Agaba says, "Open days are a good chance to ask detailed questions about your course and the university. Do not shy away. Be precise and confident. They are marketing to you. So, then, go ahead and ask!"

Ask the hard and simple questions! What units are you able to take at ago in a course? Can you take part of your degree abroad? What units are compulsory? What happens if you fail an exam? What happens when you delay to pay?

The students' academic minister Joseph Lule at the IUEA, who is doing his bachelor's degree in Mobile and Satellite Communications, says that that the universities are supposed to enrich students with skills that transform their lives.

"But how then can someone showcase what they do, if there are no open days? All universities need to have open days, for us to know what is being taught and the available facilities."

One challenge, however, still holds. Azitoyo observes that Ugandan universities, particularly those that offer Science and Technology courses are doing well in innovations but only up until the point of the paper work.

"We need to have Open Days like this, for the members of the public to see what we are doing. May be someone out there can help students who are innovative."

10-point plan to make the most of Open Days

1. Research about the background of the institutions whose Open Day you are going to.

2. Check when the university will have its Open Day; by clicking on the university's website, or signing up to their newsletter, or even following them on social media such as Facebook or Twitter.

3. Can you stand the institution? Open days aren't just about the course- you can find out everything about the courses somewhere else. It is about whether you want to live in that place for three years.

4. Accommodation. How is it allocated? What happens after your first year? Which halls are most convenient? What do you do if you cannot stay in a hall?

5. Can you afford the tuition fees and the cost of living?

6. Ask yourself; would I really enroll here if I got an offer?

7. As a student or parent, always have your questions about the institution ready. How many taught hours per week? Is the course assessed by modules, coursework, class participation or just exams?

8. If you haven't already applied, ask current students in your subject area about the good and bad side of the course in that institution.

9. Distance from home — for many students, the farther the better, unless they feel the opposite.

10. Engage in a bit of pre-event planning. It's important to read all the literature about the day in advance.

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