27 Defence College Lecturers Begin Online Learning Journey with OUK
Konza Technopolis, October 16, 2025 — The Open University of Kenya (OUK) today hosted a delegation from the Kenya National Defence University (KNDU) for a collaborative meeting aimed at enhancing professional development within the defence forces through advanced technology-based learning.
Led by Col. (Dr.) John R. Kisilu, Deputy Commandant at the Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC), the team comprised a section of 27 lecturers who have officially enrolled in OUK’s professional programmes — 13 in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 14 in Cybersecurity. The group is also pursuing the Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA–AI) course, designed to strengthen digital competence across the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
The OUK team was led by Prof. Carolyn Omulando, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), accompanied by Bernice Ogonda, Senior Academic Registrar and Dan Mulinge, ICT Officer.
In her address, Prof. Omulando commended the officers for their commitment to lifelong learning and innovation.
“OUK does not take it for granted that you have enrolled with us. We are equally happy to let you know that you have followed in the footsteps of our Head of State, who has also enrolled. We feel truly honoured by your decision,” she remarked.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) Prof. Carolyn Omulando (left) explains a point to members of the DEFTEC team during the collaborative meeting held at Konza Technopolis.
Col. (Dr.) Kisilu welcomed the partnership, describing it as a timely response to the evolving digital needs of the military.
“We are definitely going to pay for this team to enroll for masters programmes upon successful completion of the professional courses in AI and Cybersecurity, together with the HCIA–AI,” he said.
On her part, Bernice Ogonda assured the new learners of OUK’s commitment to supporting them throughout their academic journey.
“We assure you of our full support in this beautiful learning journey and wish you well as you expand your professional scope through OUK,” she added.
Dan Mulinge, the ICT Officer, guided the officers through the Learning Management System (LMS), demonstrating how to navigate classes, upload assignments and access course resources for effective online learning.
OUK ICT Officer Dan Mulinge demonstrates how to navigate the Learning Management System (LMS) during the meeting session with the DEFTEC team.
The delegation later met the Vice-Chancellor, who officially welcomed them to OUK and thanked them for embracing open and distance learning. He noted that the online mode of study offers flexibility, accessibility, and relevance in the modern professional environment.
VC Prof. Elijah Omwenga (in red necktie) poses for a photo with representatives of the Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC): Col. (Dr.) John R. Kisilu (left), Maj. Alexander K. Tarus, Head of ICT at DEFTEC, Prof. Carolyn Omulando (in yellow), and Dan Mulinge (right).
This collaboration between OUK and KNDU marks a significant milestone in strengthening national capacity through digital education — aligning military expertise with emerging technologies in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.