The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has opened admissions for new undergraduate, postgraduate and professional courses, with some programmes costing as little as Ksh5,000.
The announcement comes as several public universities simultaneously launched fully funded scholarships for postgraduate students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Besides expanding access to flexible online education, the new opportunities are expected to boost skills development in high-demand sectors while easing financial barriers for learners seeking university education and specialised professional training across Kenya.
OUK expands affordable online learning opportunities
The Open University of Kenya has unveiled a wide range of degree and professional development programmes, with bachelor's degree tuition starting from Ksh79,000 per academic year.
Professional short courses, including Business Modelling for Entrepreneurs and Mental Health Awareness, will either cost Ksh5,000 or be fully sponsored.
The university has also expanded its technology-focused offerings, introducing programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Digital Forensics, Computer Science and Interactive Media Technologies.
Other specialised courses include Software Engineering, Cloud Computing and DevOps, Web Development, Robotics and Automation, Responsible AI and Business Analytics, and AI in Management and Accountability.
Applications for OUK programmes will remain open throughout the year, with eligible students able to access government scholarships and Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding.
Universities unveil fully funded postgraduate scholarships
The admissions announcement coincides with several public universities advertising fully funded postgraduate scholarships under the African Development Bank-supported Higher Education Science and Technology (HEST) Phase II Project.
Garissa University is offering scholarships for Master's students, PhD Tutorial Fellows and professional training in Leather Technology and related STEM fields, with applications closing on August 18.
Tharaka University has opened applications for fully funded Master's programmes in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Information Technology and Computer Science, targeting Kenyans below 30 years.
Tom Mboya University has also announced AfDB-funded Master's and PhD scholarships at partner universities in China and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Kisii University is accepting applications for postgraduate research scholarships in Foundational Literacy under the HERI-Africa Programme.
Prospective students can apply directly through the respective universities before the stated application deadlines.
