KIU opens distance learning centres in Tanzania

Kampala International University (KIU) yesterday announced that it has established learning centers in Mwanza, Arusha and Dar es Salaam in a move aimed at easing learning for Tanzanian students. Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Administration and Finance, Dr Deo Betungura said the centers were expected to serve current and prospective students through open and distance learning. He said the introduction of open and distance learning would assist learners by reducing the costs of travel, accommodation and other expenses, as well as help professionals in the field to acquire continuing education while on the job. Offered under the Institute of Continuing and Distance studies, distance learning also aims at producing competitive professionals who will meet the needs of the job market, nationally and internationally, according to the DVC. The Institute of Continuing and Distance Studies (ICDS) initiative is poised to bring education to those who would otherwise be denied as a result of various contingencies-work, home keeping, living in remote locations and inadequacies of places in existing institutions,? said Dr Betungura. Dr Betungura said that through the ICDS, the University will offer various programmes at diploma, undergraduate and post graduate levels in Commerce, Education, Business Management, Conflict Resolution and Peace Building. The methodology is such that having received and internalised study materials, students are expected to attend two weekly face- to- face sessions per year, during which they meet with their course tutors and fulfill all examination requirements at their nearest designated study centres in Mwanza, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Eldoret, Mombasa, Nairobi and else where in Uganda.