Vodafone Zambia JUMP-starts e-learning portal

Vodafone Zambia is set to enhance the e-learning space for students in Zambia with the launch of the JUMP Academy, an internet-enabled application that offers unlimited access to a wide range of educational materials, tailored to the local curriculum and accessible through any device.

The launch event, which was held at the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS), was graced by Minister of Higher Education, Professor Nkandu Luo, along with prominent dignitaries from various institutions of higher learning.

Vodafone Zambia CEO, Lars Stork said the JUMP Academy will provide a series of lecture videos that cut across various subject-matters, featuring qualified lecturers from reputable institutions such as the University of Zambia, The Copperbelt University, The University of Lusaka, the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies, and guest lectures from Harvard University.

“We are excited to demonstrate Vodafone’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in education through the launch of the JUMP Academy. The primary aim of this initiative is to align education to current trends in the ICT space, thereby complementing government’s efforts to digitise learning. Through partnerships and the numerous educational resources on the platform, we hope to fast-track education into the digital age, thus facilitating the enhancement of systems such as health, governance and economic growth,” he said.

“I am proud to note that the Academy can be accessed for free. Furthermore, I am excited to state that a product as innovative as this was conceptualised and produced right here in Zambia by brilliant local talent. While other organisations import their products, and offload them on the market, we choose to innovate in Zambia and export to the rest of Africa. This is a standard for us,” he added.

Professor Luo expressed delight at the initiative and commended the 4G operator for taking a keen interest in the advancement and empowerment of young people through education.

“My ministry understands that with the introduction of ICT in education, a new world of possibilities is available to assist both lecturer and student maximise on the learning experience. E-learning has become increasingly popular across Africa. Our nation’s rise in internet users and the revolutionary changes that have happened in education have created a very fertile environment for e-learning to grow and we commend Vodafone Zambia for leading the charge,” said Prof. Luo.

“The use of technology to support education will not only enhance student’s access to quality tutorials and learning material, but will also help ensure they are digital savvy and computer literate – skills that have become increasingly vital when entering the national workforce,” she added.

The JUMP Academy is a major component of the company’s online portal dubbed JUMP, which is an educational and socially managed portal that serves to enhance e-learning for personal development and growth. In addition, the portal hosts a music platform with a wide catalogue of downloadable music produced by local budding musicians.

As part of the initial roll-out, the Academy will provide free introductory content in Mass Communication, Psychology, Information Technology (I.T.) and Law, with plans to add more courses.

Source: Vodafone Zambia