CAVENDISH UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES ICT LEARNING PLATFORM
By SIMON MUNTEMBA CAVENDISH University Zambia (CUZ) has launched an I T C - based university learning platform known as CU-LP as a way of providing quality tertiary education in distance learning. And Higher Education Minister, Nkandu Luo, who graced the occasion commended CUZ for its efforts in investing in ICTbased learning platform saying it was through such efforts that the challenges of low access to university could be resolved.
Speaking during the official launch of the learning platform in Lusaka, CUZ Vice-Chancellor, Mutale Musonda said the aim of distance learning at CUZ was to extend educational opportunities to a diverse population of students who prefer or have need for alternative methods of education delivery.
Professor Musonda explained that the launched CU-LP was an improved platform that focused on convenience of the learner, adding that it reinforces the true definition of distance learning.
He reiterated that the higher learning institution will continue to place emphasis on academic excellence and nurturing of personal values and ethics that would become the standards of communities, government and corporate Zambia.
"These approaches to instruction outside the traditional classroom setting provide greater opportunities for students to obtain the education they need to achieve their goals, while continuing with demanding personal and employment schedules," Prof. Musonda said.
He said the students will be able to access learning materials, assignments and quizzes even without an internet connection using tablets that will be provided.
He disclosed that his dedicated faculty has developed a highly improved and relevant up to date content to go with the latest innovation.
Prof. Musonda, however, implored the learning institution's stakeholders to come on board and utilise the newly launched innovative platform in meeting the training needs of the citizenry.
And Prof. Luo who was represented by Ministry of Higher education, Permanent Secretary, Owen M’gemezulu said CUZ was on the right track in pioneering the way to reaching out to all learners and contribution to producing skilled human resource.
"I am glad that Cavendish University is moving in the right path with the launch of this innovative CU-LP that pioneers a way to reaching out to all leaners by cementing quality education through established credibility and legitimacy pathways, " she said.
She reaffirmed Government’s commitment to increasing access to quality education and training particularly at the higher education level.