Smart Zambia, ZAMREN, and Education Ministry to Sign MoU for Digital Education Boost
The Smart Zambia Institute is set to sign a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zambia Research Education Network (ZAMREN) and the Ministry of Education to advance digital initiatives in the education sector.
The announcement was made by Electronic Government Division National Coordinator Mr. Percy Chinyama during a recent meeting in Lusaka.
Mr. Chinyama highlighted that this collaboration aims to reduce duplication of efforts in the education sector and optimize the use of national resources.
The discussions took place following a tour of ZAMREN’s ultra-modern facilities, including the network operation centre and data centre, which provided an opportunity to explore areas of cooperation and the deployment of the Zambia Research and Repository (ZRR) portal. The ZRR portal serves as a comprehensive data bank for national research information.
ZAMREN Chief Executive Officer Mr. Stein Mkandawire showcased Moodle, an online learning management system, emphasizing its pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Moodle facilitated the seamless continuation of lessons, examinations, and assignment submissions for universities and colleges,” said Mr. Mkandawire.
Mr. Chinyama expressed his admiration for Moodle, stating, “If this platform is rolled out to all universities, colleges, and STEM secondary schools, it could revolutionize the education and research community, ensuring inclusivity for all.”
He also urged the ZAMREN CEO to champion the deployment of Moodle as a leading initiative among African National Research & Education Networks (NRENs).
The Smart Zambia Institute, ZAMREN, and the Ministry of Education have agreed to explore the potential of signing the MoU, which is expected to significantly foster digitization efforts in the research and education sectors.
