This archive report was first published on 10 June 2020.
University of Nairobi's Online Learning Struggles ¶
As the University of Nairobi transitioned to online learning in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, students have been facing significant challenges.
Many students have been unable to access the internet, making it difficult for them to attend online classes. This has led to a boycott on Twitter, with students sharing their grievances and heartbreaking stories.
Some students have pointed out the real obstacles they face, including poor internet connectivity, lack of access to smartphones or laptops, and families who have to choose between buying data bundles and eating.
Others have expressed concerns about the practicality of online learning, particularly for subjects that require hands-on experience. They have also criticized the university's decision to require students to be on email to receive learning materials.
University of Nairobi director of corporate affairs John Orindi stated that the institution had turned to online teaching because it was still paying lecturers and other staff. However, he acknowledged that those who will be unable to access the internet will continue with their studies once universities re-open.
Students have taken to social media to express their frustrations, using hashtags such as #UoNHearUsOut and #KiamaDoesNotCare. They have also shared their personal stories, highlighting the struggles they face in accessing online learning.
"Asking a student to defer when it's not his/her wish is not as easy as University of Nairobi VC puts it. He also has to consider the psychological effects of such an order. Such students may lose the morale of learning because of that 'poor' tag #VCKiamaDoesNotCare #UoNHearUsOut" — ORIARO (@sgi_oriaro) June 9, 2020
