OUK STUDENTS TO ACCESS CUTTING-EDGE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SKILLS THROUGH GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN TECH FIRM

OUK STUDENTS TO ACCESS CUTTING-EDGE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SKILLS THROUGH GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN TECH FIRM

Latest News / July 28, 2025

Silicon Savanna, Konza Technopolis – In a groundbreaking move that places Kenyan students at the forefront of global digital transformation, the Open University of Kenya (OUK) is set to sign a transformative five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BCS Technology International, a leading Australian IT consulting and digital transformation company.

This partnership will empower students with world-class training opportunities, hands-on AI and data science experience and direct access to international experts and industry-standard tools—providing a critical springboard for their careers in the fast-growing fields of artificial intelligence, software engineering and data analytics.

Virtual AI Lab to Boost Student Learning and Innovation

At the heart of the partnership is the establishment of a Virtual AI Incubation Lab, co-developed by OUK and BCS, which will serve as an experiential learning space where students can apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems.

“This AI lab will enable our students to go beyond theory—to build, test and deploy actual machine learning models and intelligent systems,” said Prof. Carolyne Omulando, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs. “It is about giving them the tools and global connections they need to thrive in today’s digital economy.”

Students will work on projects aligned with current industry challenges, gaining exposure to tools used by tech professionals worldwide. Select learners will also gain access to BCS facilities in Australia, subject to approvals and visa regulations, broadening their international exposure.

Short Courses Designed for the Modern Job Market

In addition to degree programmes, OUK and BCS will co-develop short courses in AI, data science and software engineering aimed at fast-tracking students' entry into high-demand technology careers. These flexible, skills-based programmes will be available through OUK’s digital platforms, allowing students across Kenya to benefit—regardless of location.

“Our shared goal is to ensure students graduate not just with degrees, but with market-ready skills,” noted Prof. Caroline Omulando. “Through this partnership, our learners will gain hands-on experience with AI tools, real data sets and mentorship from global tech experts.”

Research, Innovation and Internship Opportunities

Beyond learning, the MoU establishes a framework for joint research and innovation, where students can collaborate with faculty and BCS engineers on impactful projects. Areas of focus include artificial intelligence for public service delivery, smart infrastructure, health and agriculture.

Additionally, BCS will support student internships and work attachments, offering students rare access to the inner workings of a global technology firm.

“This is a gateway to global exposure for our learners,” said Patrick Matere, BCS HR Manager in Nairobi. “Our goal is to support future Kenyan tech leaders by giving them the chance to build, innovate and grow alongside our team.”

Protection of Student Work and Equal Access for All

The agreement includes robust provisions for intellectual property rights, ensuring that student inventions and contributions to joint projects are protected and equitably shared. It also guarantees non-discrimination, equal opportunity and full compliance with data privacy laws, including Kenya’s Data Protection Act.

Projects under the partnership will be governed by detailed agreements to ensure clarity on timelines, resource contributions, IP ownership and publication rights.

Global-Standard Education Rooted in Local Relevance

By aligning with a global firm like BCS, OUK continues to deliver on its mission to make affordable, inclusive and relevant education accessible to all Kenyans especially in emerging fields where skilled professionals are in high demand.

“This collaboration redefines what is possible for students in Kenya,” said Prof. Omulando. “Our learners will now have a direct line to global knowledge, tools and mentorship. That’s transformative.”

For more information, students can contact:

OUK: vc@ouk.ac.ke or dvcaa@ouk.ac.ke

BCS: patrick.matere@bcstechnology.com.au

 

 

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The Open University of Kenya (OUK) is a virtual learning institution deeply committed to advancing education and driving socio-economic growth within Kenya and beyond. Access to higher education has remained a major challenge in Kenya and this has disadvantaged citizens who seek to improve their knowledge, upscale skills and for posterity. Experts have noted that increasing the number of educational institutions so as to match the rate of population growth is an extremely difficult if not impossible solution especially when financial and other resource constraints are considered. Open and Distance Learning approaches, coupled with innovative ICT solutions, have proofed viable alternatives to providing excellent education to millions of people located wherever and whenever by different life circumstances.