OUK launches China-Africa digital learning hub

The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has launched two pioneering digital education centres in collaboration with the Open University of China and Donghua University.

The Open Learning Center Future Academy Programme and the China-Africa Regional Cooperation Center for Digital Education are set to revolutionise access to quality digital learning across Africa.

The initiative aims to facilitate the development of academic and non-academic programmes, support staff capacity building, and promote joint course offerings, reinforcing OUK’s position as a leader in digital education.

The collaboration will provide Africa with cutting-edge online learning resources, expanding educational opportunities for millions.

Speaking at the launch, OUK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, hailed the partnership saying it will impact academic development and capacity building.

"This partnership goes beyond infrastructure. It will strengthen human capital, enhance digital skills, and provide a model for future education collaborations between China and Africa," said Prof. Omwenga.

The programme will foster resource-sharing, technical collaboration, and course development to promote educational equity and regional economic growth.

By offering innovative courses and programmes, the initiative aims to meet the increasing demand for skilled human resources across various sectors.

Through the integration of advanced digital tools, the collaboration will create an inclusive and efficient learning environment.

Dr. Zhao Wang of Donghua University highlighted the transformative role of the Centers in digital education.

"By leveraging cutting-edge digital technology, these Centers will eliminate geographical barriers, allowing students across Africa to access high-quality education," Dr. Wang noted.

The launch is part of a broader effort to strengthen China-Africa cooperation in digital education. Dr. Xiangxu Mingwei of the Open University of China pointed out Kenya's pivotal role in this initiative.

"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 stated.

To further enhance learning, the Open University of China has developed an international online teaching platform offering diverse courses, including the widely popular "Future Chinese" program.

OUK Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Carolyn Omulando, lauded the efforts of all stakeholders in bringing this vision to life.

"This milestone is a testament to OUK’s vision of providing cutting-edge, accessible, and inclusive education to learners across Africa. The China-Africa Regional Cooperation Centre for Digital Education is the first in Africa, and Open University of Kenya is honored to host it," she said.

The China-Africa Digital Education Regional Cooperation Center in Kenya will serve as a model for similar centers across the continent, with plans to establish another facility in North Africa.

The Open University of China has already established 32 Open Learning Centers in 27 countries worldwide, including 22 in African nations such as Zambia, Tanzania, Benin, and South Africa.

The newly launched Kenya-based Center is expected to serve as a key hub for digital education in East Africa, reflecting a shared commitment to long-term collaboration and sustainable digital education initiatives.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September 2024 during the 1st Exchange Mechanism Conference of the China-Africa Consortium of Universities and the China-Africa Higher Education Dialogue in Beijing, China.