By Kamundia Muriithi
The University of Embu has admitted 2, 475 students who are set to commence online classes on September 7, 2020.
The learners underwent virtual orientation on Thursday and Friday last week in preparation for the first semester through e-learning.
Speaking during the orientation, Vice Chancellor Prof Daniel Mugendi said the group is the highest enrolled since the conception of the University in 2013. He said they will use a blended learning approach that will utilize online teaching using different digital media tools for the delivery of lectures.
“The increase in the intake of students is an indication of attractiveness of the university’s academic programmes,”said VC.
The coming of 9th group of learners will increase the population in the university from the current 7,362 to 8, 435.
Prof Mugendi, however, challenged the students to embrace digital learning and adapt fast in order to fit well in the university’s virtual learning programme.
He advised them to be ready to overcome challenges brought by the online learning citing that they will face challenges related to technical issues such as internet connectivity and e-learning gadgets.
”Switching from face to face teaching to online-based learning will bring new experience, for some will feel lost or the expectations may be confusing, therefore, learners need to free themselves from the traditional mind,” added VC.
On the internet connectivity, the vice chancellor advised them to utilize education bundles provided by various internet service providers.
“I advise you to be self-disciplined in time management by avoiding unnecessary engagements which could rob your time to engage in online classes,” he said.
The don urged them to ensure they synchronize their schedules with the university’s online programmes for them not to be left behind.
“The country is going through a dark period due to the Covid-19 pandemic which has demanded for a change in the mode of learning from traditional classroom to online teaching. However, as Embu University, we are ready to resume the face to face learning once the pandemic is contained,” he added.
However, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic, Research and Extension Prof Kiplagat Kotut, said students have already been trained on how to join online classes.
