- The University of Embu is increasingly using online learning to ease pressure on physical lecture spaces.
- Students say virtual delivery of common units gives them greater flexibility and reduces congestion in lecture halls.
- The university’s wider investment in digital systems is also reshaping academic and administrative operations.
The University of Embu has embraced technology to ease pressure associated with rising student enrolment, with learners taking a significant number of common units through online platforms.
The approach has made learning more flexible for students while reducing congestion in lecture halls, where large numbers of learners would otherwise compete for limited seats and classroom space.
Students say the online delivery of common units has given them greater flexibility, allowing them to access lessons without necessarily being physically present in lecture halls.
“Online classes have made it easier for us to manage our time. We can attend lectures from different locations and still keep up with our studies,” said a University of Embu student.
Another student said the system had helped reduce the pressure associated with crowded lecture halls.
“Sometimes finding a seat in a lecture hall can be difficult when many students are taking the same unit. Online learning has made things more convenient because you can follow the lesson without having to scramble for space,” the student said.
The university has emerged as one of the public institutions in the country increasingly integrating information and communication technology (ICT) into academic and administrative operations.
Its current e-learning platform hosts courses for the 2026/2027 academic year, while university timetable guidance has previously indicated that units without designated lecture halls may be taught online.
The university has also continued investing in digital systems aimed at improving institutional efficiency.
ERP system
However, one factual point in the original copy needs correction before publication. The university’s current ICT information states that its ERP system was outsourced from an external vendor, rather than developed entirely in-house. The university also previously advertised for an external firm to supply, install and commission an ERP system.
The ERP system is intended to integrate institutional operations and strengthen efficiency across departments.
The university’s experience offers lessons for institutions grappling with increasing enrolment and limited physical infrastructure.
By moving appropriate courses online while investing in digital systems, the University of Embu has demonstrated how technology can complement traditional teaching and help institutions manage growing demand for higher education.
Although the University of Embu does not position itself as a technology university, its sustained investment in ICT has become an important feature of its operations.
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Its approach could provide a useful benchmark for universities seeking practical ways of managing large student populations, improving service delivery and reducing pressure on physical learning facilities.
By Kithinji Njeru
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