The National Informational Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U) on Tuesday handed over a donation of IT equipment including; laptops and smart boards to Makerere University to facilitate e-Learning and virtual workshops and research at the University. The e-Learning equipment were from Huawei Technologies Uganda were handed to the Vice chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe by NITA-U Executive Director Dr. Hatwib Mugasa.
Because of the pandemic, Covid-19, e-Learning has been the go forward for most institutions, enabling students to study from home. These kind of systems have been highly recommended to avoid students crowding at schools/university in the on-going fight against the virus from spreading.
While speaking at the Mugasa said they are confident that the equipment they are handing over will be instrumental in supporting e-Learning as well as virtual workshops and research within the university
Mugasa adds that, “With the Covid-19 Pandemic, e-Learning has become a necessity for all institutions. We are also aware that when students interact with technology, it not only facilitates their learning but also inspires them to pursue careers in Technological Innovation.”
He further affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the education sector in automation.
Professor Nawangwe noted that the donation to the university is line with the strategic plan that has a focus on Open Distance e-Learning.
“The future of Makerere University is Open Distance e-Learning which allows us to expand education beyond the barriers of the physical campus and allow learners to study according to their time, pace and place across the different disciplines. This Equipment has given us a push and it will enhance research in the institute,” explained Professor Nawangwe.
Meanwhile, NITA-U with its goal of integrating all government systems to NBI, is providing connectivity to the Ministry of Education and Sports, Education Service Commission, National Council for Higher Education, Makerere University, Higher Education Students Financing Board, Uganda Management Institute among other Institutions.
Reporters Note: We are yet to receive a comment from Huawei Uganda about the donation of the equipment.
