Makerere University partners with S. Korea to enhance e-learning

_____________________

In a bid to strengthen digital education, Makerere University has launched an ambitious project, titled "Project for Enhancing the Distance Education Environment at Makerere University in Uganda".

The project is funded by a $12.2m (sh45b) grant from the government of South Korea through the International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Goals of the project

The initiative aims to revolutionise e-learning at Makerere University, creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Muyingo (Left), State minister for Higher Education presents a gift to South Korea’s Ambassador to Uganda Sung-soo (Right) during the launch of the “Project for Enhancing the Distance Education Environment at Makerere University in Uganda.” (Photo by John Odyek)

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, highlighted the project’s potential to develop an e-learning infrastructure that supports creativity and expands access to higher education, both locally and internationally.

“We envision that within the next five years, every faculty at Makerere University will offer at least one-degree programme online,” said Prof. Nawangwe. “This partnership will empower our educators to reach a wider audience through digital platforms, and we are committed to ensuring the sustainable and effective implementation of this transformative project.”

The project will enhance Makerere University’s Open and Distance E-Learning (ODeL) platform, positioning the university as a regional leader in digital education. This initiative will increase access to quality education for students across Uganda and beyond, while also bolstering the university’s research and teaching capabilities.

The launch event, held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Makerere University’s Auditorium Hall, was graced by the State Minister for Higher Education, John Muyingo. During his address, Muyingo emphasised the vital role of higher education in driving national development and preparing the workforce for the challenges of a rapidly changing digital world.

“This grant underscores the strong bond between Uganda and the Republic of Korea, reflecting our shared commitment to advancing education and skills development,” Muyingo said. He quoted John Dewey, an American philosopher, stressing that “If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow,” urging the need for educational systems to adapt to the digital era.

KOICA’s role in the project

KOICA's collaboration with Makerere University involves a multi-phased approach, focusing on capacity building, infrastructure development, and the creation of a comprehensive master plan for digital education. Prof. Chun Seyeoung, KOICA’s project manager, outlined the three key components of the project:

Developing a master plan for ODeL policy and implementation: A comprehensive study of the current ODeL landscape will be conducted to create a master plan, guiding the university’s digital transformation. This plan will ensure that by 2030, most academic programmes at Makerere will incorporate e-learning methods, positioning the university as a hub for distance learning in Africa.

Muyingo (Fourth Left), State minister for Higher Education with South Korea’s Ambassador to Uganda Sung-soo (Foruth Right) and other officials during the launch of the “Project for Enhancing the Distance Education Environment at Makerere University in Uganda.” (Photo by John Odyek)

Building capacity for faculty and staff: Specialized training will be provided for 40 faculty members, multimedia developers, and ODeL personnel. These individuals will undergo training in Korea, after which they will conduct local workshops to transfer knowledge and skills to their colleagues at Makerere University.

Establishing the MAK-ODeL centre: The construction of a dedicated 4,000-square-metre ODeL centre will enhance the university’s infrastructure, providing state-of-the-art e-learning facilities, connectivity, and multimedia production capabilities to support high-quality distance education.

The partnership includes Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), which will fund large-scale infrastructure projects, such as the construction of new science and technology centres at Makerere University.

The project aligns with KOICA’s Digital ODA Strategy (2021-2025), aimed at bridging the digital divide in developing nations.

South Korea’s Ambassador speaks out

South Korea’s Ambassador to Uganda, Park Sung-soo, expressed pride in the partnership, recognising Makerere University’s prestigious history and its role as a leader in higher education in East Africa.

“This collaboration goes beyond digital transformation; it represents a commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students, ensuring that education remains accessible even during global crises,” Ambassador Sung-soo said.

He emphasised that the digital transformation of education in Uganda is essential for unlocking the potential of the country’s young population and preparing them for future challenges. “Our investments in human capital have been key to South Korea's economic success, and we are excited to share our expertise to support Uganda's educational development,” Sung-soo explained.

James Nkata, representing the Makerere University Council, underscored that the project is about empowering both students and staff for the digital age. “This initiative bridges the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern, flexible learning opportunities,” Nkata noted.

Prof. Henry Mwanaki Alinaitwe, the principal investigator for the project at Makerere University, emphasised the importance of fostering a culture of innovation, lifelong learning, and adaptability among students and staff.