In a historic move, the Open University of Kenya, has launched two state-of-the-art digital learning centers, in collaboration with the Open University of China and Donghua University.
This unprecedented partnership is set to reshape the landscape of digital education in Africa and will be a hub for the China-Africa digital learning initiative.
The newly unveiled Open Learning Center Future Academy Program and the China-Africa Regional Cooperation Center for Digital Education will revolutionize access to high-quality online education for millions of learners across the continent.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, OUK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that the initiative would enhance capacity building for staff, facilitate the development of academic and non-academic programmes and promote joint course offerings.
“This partnership goes beyond infrastructure. It will strengthen human capital, enhance digital skill, and provide a model for future education collaborations between China and Africa,” said Prof. Omwenga.
The collaboration is expected to enhance Africa’s digital capabilities by providing high-quality online learning resources. Dr. Zhao Wang for Donghua University highlighted the Center’s role in transforming digital education by offering world-class courses that will reach up to four million learners globally.
“By leveraging cutting-edge digital technology, these Centers will eliminate geographical barriers allowing students across Africa to access high-quality education,” Dr. Wang stated.
He further outlined three key focus areas:
Enhancing Digital Capabilities in Africa – By fostering closer cooperation in resource-sharing, technical collaboration and course development, the initiative will contribute to educational equity and regional economic growth.
Empowering Relevant Industries – Through innovative courses and programmes, the initiative aims to meet the rising demand for highly skilled human resources across various sectors.
Driving Sustainable Digital Cooperation – By integrating advanced digital tools into education, the collaboration will create a more inclusive and efficient learning environment.
According to Dr. Xiangxu Mingwei for Open University of China, the launch of the Centers is part of a broader initiative to expand China-Africa cooperation in digital education. He noted that the China-Africa Digital Education Regional Cooperation Center in Kenya will serve as a model for similar Centers in other African regions, including an upcoming facility in North Africa.
“With the support of OUK, we are committed to providing high-quality Chinese educational resources, which will be delivered nationwide through the Open University of Kenya,” she added.
The Open University of China has already established thirty-two (32) Open Learning Centers in 27 countries worldwide including twenty-two (22) in African nations such as Zambia, Tanzania, Benin, and South Africa. The newly launched Kenya-based Center is expected to serve as a hub for digital education in East Africa.
To further support learners, the Open University of China has also developed an international online teaching platform offering diverse online courses, including the highly popular “Future Chinese” program.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the institutions was finalized in September 2024 during the 1st Exchange Mechanism Conference of the China-Africa Consortium of Universities and China-Africa Higher Education Dialogue in Beijing, China. The agreement reflects a commitment to fostering long-term collaboration and sustainable digital education initiatives between China and Africa.
OUK Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Carolyn Omulando, praised the dedication of all stakeholders involved in bringing the agreement to fruition, stating that the partnership underscores the University’s role as a leader in digital education and innovation in Kenya.
“This milestone is a testament to OUK’s vision of providing cutting-edge, accessible and inclusive education to learners across Africa,” she remarked. She added, “the China-Africa Reginal Cooperation Centre for Digital Education Is the first in Africa, and so Open University of Kenya is honoured to host it.”
With the establishment of these Centers, Kenya is poised to become a key player in the global digital education space, leveraging technology and international partnerships to expand learning opportunities for millions.
