By Buwule Joseph Mary
Makerere University has taken a major step toward transforming higher education delivery with the launch of its Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) Masterplan and the groundbreaking of a state-of-the-art ODeL building.
The milestone event, held at the university’s main campus, brought together officials from KOICA Uganda, university leadership, government representatives, and development partners, signaling a renewed commitment to expanding access to quality education through digital innovation.
Speaking at the ceremony, KOICA Uganda Country Director, Jihee Ahn, described the occasion as a defining moment not only for the university but for the region’s education landscape.
“This is the foundation of a much greater journey—one that will lead Makerere beyond Uganda, to become a leading institution in East Africa and across the continent in delivering innovative and high-quality open and distance education,” she said.
The project, funded through a grant of approximately US$12.2 million from the Republic of Korea, underscores the growing bilateral cooperation between South Korea and Uganda, particularly in advancing education and technological development.
Representing the Chairperson of Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, Dr. Silas Ngabirano highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative in redefining teaching and learning at the institution.
“This project is more than just providing technology. It is about enhancing the capacity of our students, faculty and staff in an increasingly digital world. It is about bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning needs,” he noted.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, was represented by Prof. Sarah Ssali, who emphasized that digital learning remains central to the university’s long-term vision.
She revealed that e-Learning is a key priority under the Makerere Strategic Plan (2026–2030), with deliberate investments earmarked for strengthening infrastructure and systems to support flexible and inclusive education delivery.
“We are excited about the possibilities that this project presents and are committed to making ODeL a success and providing an excellent example in this part of the world,” Prof. Ssali said, while expressing gratitude to the Government and people of South Korea for their support.
The Principal Investigator, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, outlined the project’s three major components: development of the ODeL Masterplan, enhancement of e-Learning infrastructure, and capacity building for staff.
Of the total grant, US$3.75 million has been allocated to the construction of the ODeL building, which is expected to be completed within 22 months.
Construction works have been awarded to SMS Construction Limited. The company’s Executive Director, Ashaba Ainea, pledged to deliver a high-quality facility aligned with the inclusive vision outlined in the masterplan.
“We are committed to ensuring that the construction meets the highest standards, with full consideration for accessibility and inclusion,” he said, adding that the building is scheduled for completion by August 2027.
Once completed, the ODeL facility is expected to significantly boost Makerere University’s capacity to deliver flexible, technology-driven education, reaching learners beyond physical classrooms and across borders.
Education experts say the initiative comes at a time when universities globally are increasingly embracing digital platforms to expand access, improve learning outcomes, and respond to evolving workforce demands.
For Makerere, the ODeL project represents not just infrastructure development, but a bold reimagining of its role in shaping the future of higher education in Africa
