A delegation from the Mastercard Foundation on Tuesday, 20th May, 2025, visited Nkumba University to assess the utilization of the content digitalization studio donated to the University in 2022, under the Mastercard Foundation Uganda eLearning Initiative for Education Institutions.
Led by Mr. Rodwell Mangisi, the Digital Economy Director for Mastercard Foundation Pan African Programs, the team included representatives from the Mastercard Foundation Uganda office and Cyber School Technology Solutions, headed by Mr. John Mukiibi.
The delegation was warmly received by Nkumba University’s University Secretary, Prof. Francis Kasekende, who expressed deep appreciation for the continued support from the partner organizations.
“Your support has enabled us to serve our students better. For instance, our journalism students have used the studio equipment to tell stories from our community. This has, in a way, increased our visibility, which in turn attracts more students,” Prof. Kasekende said.
He further highlighted the broad impact of the partnership, noting that Nkumba University has benefited from improved internet connectivity, the installation of the digital content hub, and the provision of assistive devices, such as laptops, for both students and lecturers.
“These contributions have truly enhanced our teaching and learning environment,” Prof. Kasekende added. “We’re grateful that our staff and students can now access better digital resources, which are crucial in today’s learning ecosystem.”
The visit aimed at evaluating how the university has integrated the digital studio into its academic processes and how the support provided is contributing to the broader goals of digital transformation in higher education.
Mr. Mangisi commended the university’s efforts to maximize the use of the studio and affirmed the Foundation’s commitment to promoting digital innovation in education.
The studio is primarily being utilized by journalism students to create news content for publication on the university’s news website, as well as on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The delegation also observed that students from the School of Commercial, Industrial Art and Design are actively using the facility for film production projects.
The Cyber School – Mastercard Foundation Uganda eLearning Initiative is a collaborative program aimed at enhancing digital learning capacities in higher education institutions across the country. At Nkumba University, the initiative has significantly bolstered digital infrastructure and learning resources. Key interventions include the donation and installation of a modern content digitalization studio, provision of laptops and other assistive devices to students and lecturers, and the enhancement of internet connectivity across the campus. These efforts are designed to support inclusive, technology-driven education and empower both learners and educators to thrive in the digital era.
