Online learning takes shape in Kenya as Doba Faculty introduces Master's Degree programme

BY DAN MUHUNI

As the institutions of higher learning  fraternity continues to make forays into the Kenyan segment, an increasing number of universities have seen the importance of taking advantage of the advancement of technology by introducing virtual learning institutions. DOBA Faculty of Applied Business and Social Studies, a Europe-based institution is one of the universities that plan to valve into it and also benefit from growing demand in Africa for overseas university degrees.

Ms Jasna Dominko Baloh, Director DOBA Faculty

Speaking during the launch of its online Master’s degree Programme for the African market in a Nairobi hotel today, the Director of the Faculty, Ms Jasna Dominko Baloh, said e-learning would help many people with limited time and finance advance their education from their home countries at affordable fees.

 “Online learning is an alternative for those who are unable to attend face to face lectures due to their career or family commitments, such as full-time employed people who want to advance in their career, young adults with active lifestyles and young mothers with limited free time,” Ms Baloh added.

DOBA is the latest entrant into the market as European-based higher learning institutions are targeting a growing number of people in Africa seeking overseas university degrees by introducing cost-effective online programs for the region.

The Faculty is targeting those employed in diplomatic organizations and multinationals, entrepreneurs, middle management, civil servants, alumni of bachelor programmes and young people aged between 19 and 25 years old.

The Faculty’s flagship course will be the Masters Programme in International Business Management, which will cost Sh 406, 117 (U$4.695) per academic year.

The objective of the Faculty is to prepare students for solving practical business problems and challenges in their future careers, for the challenges of the business world that requires great flexibility and an individual, innovative and creative approach.  European recognized degree.

“We develop professionally successful, personally happy and satisfied graduates, who will contribute to the greater competitiveness of the economy. Our success is the quality knowledge, employability and permanent satisfaction of our alumni.56% of graduates experienced positive changes in their workplace immediately after graduating,” said Ms Baloh.

DOBA Faculty of Applied Business and Social Studies holds the honour of being the first and only higher education institution in South-Eastern Europe to receive the UNIQUe international certification for quality in e-learning which is awarded by the European Foundation for Quality in e-Learning.

Online learning with DOBA Faculty offers a truly global experience. Students have the opportunity to study in internationally varied groups and work with other students who bring new ideas as well as their own professional and cultural experiences enriching the learning process. This cultural exchange provides added value to our programmes. During the whole programme students are monitored and guided by a tutor, who is available to you 7 days a week.

“Our students have numerous opportunities for networking and strengthening both business and private connections in the European Union and Africa through: the online Master’s programme, various programme-related activities, and active participation in the alumni club,” Ms Baloh said. 

The Faculty employs a state-of-the-art virtual learning platform known as the Blackboard Learn to support Online students.  The platfom allows students access all information that is needed for the course, including course materials, chat rooms, discussion forums on their computers or mobile phone and tablet.