Theme: Redesigning the Digitalized African College and University
What is a digitalized university? Several years ago, it simply involved shifting from analog data and records (eg, paper journal and books) to digital media (eg, e-repositories and library e-materials) or from paper-based process to online processes (eg, student registration). Whereas African Universities are in different stages of the digitalisation process converting existing analog processes into digital ones, they must move to next level to create, new and innovative processes and capabilities based on current and emerging digital technologies. This involves evaluating and assessing the feasibility of potential innovations, selecting those most useful, and prioritising them based on the benefits and added value they offer to universities and their broader communities. The process should be captured in agreed upon, well thought out, digital strategies lead to higher efficiency and increased impact of the universities to society.
The UbuntuNet Connect 2022 conference theme looks broadly at the issues surrounding the redesign of digitalised universities in Africa. Keynote speeches, panel discussions, and paper presentations will address topics and anchor discussions on where we have come from, where we are today, where we should be heading, and the challenges and opportunities we face along the way.