OUK EXPANDS ACADEMIC OFFERINGS WITH NEW PROGRAMMES AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES
Konza Technopolis, February 10, 2025 – The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has made a historic stride in expanding higher education access with the launch of ten (10) new academic programmes and eight (8) professional development courses. The unveiling ceremony that was held at Konza Technopolis was presided over by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, alongside senior University officials and members of the media.
A Milestone in Digital Learning
The expansion of OUK’s academic portfolio, from its initial seven (7) programmes to over twenty (20) academic and professional development courses, underscores the University’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education through its fully digital learning model.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, giving his remarks
In his keynote address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, expressed confidence that these new programmes would significantly increase student enrollment, strengthening OUK’s position as a leader in digital education.
"We started with seven programmes and now we are launching more than twenty (20) academic and professional development courses. This is a game-changer for us as it means increased enrollment and an even greater impact in shaping the future of higher education in Kenya," said Prof. Omwenga.
He further emphasized that without programmes, a university cannot thrive adding that OUK remains committed to continuously expanding its academic offerings.
New Academic Programmes and Professional Development Courses
The newly launched ten (10) academic programmes span across four Schools catering to emerging industry needs and technological advancements.
- Bachelor of Agricultural Technology and Food Systems
School of Business and Economics
- Bachelor of Economics and Data Science
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education
- Masters in Learning Design and Technology
School of Science and Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing
- Master of Data Science
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
In addition to these degree programmes, eight (8) professional development short courses designed to enhance skill development and professional growth were also launched. Some of these courses are offered free of charge, while others require a fee. These include:
- Accountability Fundamentals
- Business Modelling for Entrepreneurs
- E-Learning Essentials for Online Engagement
- Corporate Governance
- Emotional Intelligence
- Gender and Diversity
- Mental Health Awareness
- Online Assessment
Strengthening Academic and Professional Growth
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Carolyne Omulando, emphasized that the rigorous process of developing these programmes ensured they align with market demands and technological evolution.
Prof. Carolyne Omulando, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) during the launch
"This has been a journey that began last year, full of dedication from our academic and ICT teams. Today, we celebrate the realization of that vision. These programmes are designed to equip learners with relevant, future-ready skills," she stated.
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Planning and Infrastructure, Prof. Christopher Chepken, highlighted OUK’s position as a pioneer in digital education, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and interactive digital platforms to enhance the learning experience.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning and Infrastructure) speaking during the event
"We are building an academic giant in this region, one that fully embraces digital education. Our University integrates AI and the latest online delivery methods to support programme development and ensure quality education for our learners," Prof. Chepken remarked.
Growing Recognition and Future Outlook
Since receiving its Charter on August 1, 2023, OUK has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in online education. The University enrolled its first students in January 2024 and graduated its first cohort of seventy-eight (78) Postgraduate Diploma students in November 2024.
With the introduction of these new programmes and courses, OUK is transforming digital education, ensuring that learners across Kenya and beyond have access to flexible, high-quality and industry-aligned programmes.
As enrollment grows, OUK remains dedicated to equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
#OUK #NewProgrammes #OnlineLearning #DigitalEducation #HigherLearning