KIU & ICDL Africa Sign Strategic M.O.U to Advance Digital Literacy

KIU, MAIN CAMPUS - Kampala International University (KIU) ushered in October with a partnership, officially becoming an Accredited Testing Centre (ATC) for the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) Africa. The signing ceremony took place on Friday, 3rd October 2025, at KIU’s Main Campus, marking a significant step in the university’s commitment to digital empowerment.

ICDL Africa, a leading force in digital literacy across the continent, collaborates with institutions worldwide to equip individuals with essential digital skills for the modern era. Through this partnership, KIU joins a growing network dedicated to fostering a digitally literate and empowered Africa.

Speaking on behalf of KIU, Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammed Ngoma welcomed the partnership as timely and strategic, aligning with the Ugandan Government’s push for nationwide digital literacy.

“KIU operates two campuses: our Main Campus in Kampala, Central Uganda and the Western Campus in Ishaka, Bushenyi, Western Uganda. This partnership enables us to extend ICDL operations across both campuses, reaching learners from all regions of the country,” he noted.

Representing ICDL Africa, General Manager Solange Umulisa emphasized the transformative potential of the collaboration.
“This partnership will equip both students and staff with the digital competencies required in today’s job market. Once an institution attains a minimum of 50 credits, it qualifies for full accreditation as a fully-fledged ICDL Centre,” she explained.

Prof. Regina Ejemot Nwadiaro, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Consultancy, and Extension (RICE), underscored the urgency of digital skilling in higher education.
“With the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum, digital proficiency is no longer optional but rather essential. This partnership is a win-win, enabling KIU to bridge the skills gap while advancing ICDL’s mission,” she said.

Peter Maina, Regional Manager for ICDL Africa, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the initiative’s alignment with broader regional and global efforts.
“ICDL is already active across East Africa and beyond. This partnership brings digital skilling one step closer to every learner in today’s fast paced and digital-first world,” he remarked.

Dan Muhenda, ICDL Africa’s Market Development Executive in Uganda, pointed to the government’s Parish Development Model (PDM) as further evidence of the partnership’s relevance.
“With the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance rolling out PDM to enhance digital skills among public servants and citizens, the need for certified trainers is more urgent than ever,” he said.

Reflecting on previous collaborations, Dr. Mustafa Mundu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration, expressed optimism about the partnership’s future.

“In May 2025, KIU hosted ICDL training for over 150 refugees from South Sudan, Sudan, DRC, and Eritrea. That success gives us every reason to expect even greater impact moving forward,” he shared.

Also present was Asiati Mbabazi, University Secretary, who expressed enthusiasm for the partnership’s potential. Engr. Prof. Ibrahim Sani Madugu, Director of ICT, added that KIU’s ICT students stand to benefit immensely.

“They will gain hands-on experience and an internationally recognized certification, positioning them competitively in the job market or even empowering them to launch their own ventures,” he said.

The signing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr. Jacob Ashibi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs; Grace Lubega, ICDL Africa Trainer of Trainers; Dr. Adewusi Michael Adelani, Dean of the School of Mathematics and Computing; and Fred Bwambale, Lecturer at KIU.