In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) in Uganda recently took significant strides towards embracing the digital age in education. This shift was marked by launch of a digital Information Centre and a comprehensive two-day training session on Digitization Mechanisms for Digital Repositories, organized by Uganda National Commission for UNESCO in Partnership with Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held from January 11th to 12th, 2024 AT Arch Apartments and Hotel. The initiative aimed to interest MoES agencies and partners to embrace digitization especially in the information preservation and dissemination in order to transform manual Information/documentation centers into dynamic, accessible digital repositories, unlocking a new era of information dissemination.
Group picture of some of the participants and facilitators
The training set clear objectives, aiming to equip participants with the necessary skills for digitizing information, efficient organization and storage of digitized data, and an understanding of legal and ethical considerations in digitization. The overarching goal was to instill a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and challenges associated with transitioning from traditional to digital Information/documentation centers.
The training, attended by 40 participants from various educational agencies, became a vital step towards realizing this vision. The participants, primarily staff responsible for information management and information systems administration from UNEB, NCHE, UBTEB, UNMEB, UAHEB, MoES, NCS, NCDC, etc. engaged in a transformative experience led by expert trainers.
The Secretary-General Dr. Rosie Agoi opened the event, acknowledging the pivotal role of digital repositories in advancing knowledge societies. She highlighted the significance of defending freedom of expression and media independence, framing the training under Program V – Communication and Information. The Secretary-General’s vision aligned with the belief that digital repositories could be catalysts for universal access to information, fostering continuous learning and innovation.
Dr. Rosie Agoi during opening session of the Training
Dr. Sungbong Kim, representing ICESCO joined the training online and emphasized the transformative power of digital initiatives. From e-learning platforms to mobile educational apps, Dr. Kim illustrated how ICESCO’s commitment was reshaping education. Initiatives like the Children’s Library and eLearning Center and Digital Labs for Girls showcased a dedication to inclusivity and technological advancement.
Dr. Koumbou Barry and Dr. Sungbong Kim (right) virtually deliver his remarks at opening of the two-day event in Kampala.
As the two-day training came to an end, participants and trainers shared reflections on the transformative journey they had undertaken. Sr Prossy, a Participant from one of the Institutions eloquently expressed her appreciation and envisioned the training not just as a personal growth experience but as a foundation for lasting connections and collaborations that would extend beyond the training room.
Lead Trainer Dr. Sarah Kaddu FROM College of Computing and Information Sciences expressed heartfelt appreciation for the vibrant and active engagement of participants. Her reflection encompassed the achieved milestones, ethical considerations, and the collective excellence demonstrated throughout the training.
In the closing remarks, Prof. Mpezamihigo acknowledged the evolution towards a digital era, emphasizing responsible digital practices and the crucial role of digital repositories in revolutionizing education. He extended gratitude to ICESCO for their unwavering support and officially declared the training closed, expressing hope for a transformative future in education.
In conclusion, the journey from manual resource centers to dynamic digital repositories signals a commitment to accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity. The knowledge gained and the collaborations forged during these two days lay the foundation for a transformative future in Uganda’s educational sector.