EBKUST-KNUST partnership: expanding access to online postgraduate education in West Africa

The Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST) in Sierra Leone has partnered with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana to introduce online postgraduate programs. This partnership is on making education available to people who may not be able to attend classes in person. The program is designed to help working professionals, students in remote areas, and others who face challenges in accessing higher education. Both universities are working to ensure the programs meet the needs of students and follow the rules for quality education in their respective countries.

A step-by-step plan During the meeting to discuss the partnership, Professor Daniel Duah, Dean of the International Programmes Office at KNUST, explained the need for teamwork. “The success of this project depends on our ability to work closely as a team,” he said. Professor Eric Appau Asante, Director of the KNUST E-Learning Centre, shared updates on the progress of the project. “We initially considered a larger number of programs but decided to focus on ten. These include Religion and Human Development, Nutrition and Dietetics, Agribusiness, Mathematics Education, Economics, Computer Science, Science Education, Information Systems, and Geography.”

He emphasized the importance of starting with fewer programs to ensure quality. “We selected these programs because they have a strong faculty and meet the requirements for accreditation. Starting small allows us to manage the process,” he added. EBKUST’s perspective Professor Edwin Momoh, Vice-Chancellor of EBKUST, supported the decision to begin with ten programs.

“It is better to start small and grow steadily than to take on too much at once and risk failure,” he said. Reverend Professor Enoch Terlumun Iortyom from EBKUST also agreed with this approach, noting, “A focused and gradual start will enable us to achieve success and build confidence in this initiative.” The programs will be submitted to the Tertiary Education Commission in Sierra Leone for accreditation. This will ensure they meet the standards required for postgraduate education in the country.

Combining online and in-person learning Professor Michael Poku-Boansi, Director of the Graduate School at KNUST, assured support from the Graduate School in implementing the programs. “These programs will primarily run online but will include short in-person sessions, especially for research students. This model gives students the flexibility to study while continuing with their jobs.” he said, Making education affordable The discussion was also on affordability. “We are working to ensure the cost of the programs is manageable. Fees will cover admission, exams, and other necessary charges, and we will finalize the details in subsequent meetings.”

Prof Asante said. “Access to education must not be limited by cost. We are committed to making these programs affordable to a broad range of students in Sierra Leone.” Professor Momoh added. The impact on education in Sierra Leone This partnership between EBKUST and KNUST has the potential to change the way postgraduate education is delivered in Sierra Leone.

“This initiative opens new opportunities for people who would otherwise be unable to pursue postgraduate studies due to financial constraints or location. It allows them to learn without having to leave their jobs or move to another city.” Professor Momoh revealed. “This partnership will also inspire other universities in West Africa to explore similar models of online education, which could significantly expand access to higher education across the region.”

The next steps The next steps in the project include finalizing the fees, getting accreditation for the programs, and ensuring the online platform is ready. Both universities are committed to addressing any challenges that come up during implementation.

Published: 17th January,2025 Source: KNUST E-Learning Centre