Emerging trends in ICT education

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) degree programs in private and public universities remain very popular and attract very good students. In recent past, there has been an increase in the enrolment in ICT degree programs in the traditional areas of computer science, electronic engineering, computer engineering and in the newer areas of information systems and software engineering. This paper identifies some of the local and global drivers of this demand. It then uses the open networking model to analyze the future demand for ICT graduates. Using the model, the paper concludes that the focus of Kenyan universities should be in the academic areas of computer science, information systems and electronic engineering. In order to have an impact on the Kenyan economy and the ICT industry, there is an urgent need for universities to seek professional accreditation of the different ICT degree programs and therefore achieve international standards of quality. The paper recommends adopting the E-campus concept to develop a world-class learning environment for students and faculty that overcomes the low penetration of ICT in Kenya. Although ICT profession will remain popular because of the increasing use of ICT applications in businesses and governments in the region, the challenge for the universities is to attract, retain and develop doctoral-level ICT faculty.