After extensive negotiations with giant telecom companies of Africell, Airtel and MTN, Makerere University students will now be able to access the university’s websites without having to load data bundles.
According to a statement shared by the Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Africell, Airtel and MTN have agreed to zero rate all Makerere websites as support to the online learning.
However, students can only access the websites if they turn off their VPNs as the privilege is only enjoyed by those based in Uganda.
“I wish to thank Africell, Airtel and MTN for accepting to zero rate our websites as support to the online delivery of teaching and learning. Your invaluable support is greatly appreciated. Students are advised that this facility does not work if you are using VPN.” Nawangwe revealed.
Makerere university announced online learning for continuing students and finalists which kicked off on 8th February 2021. Some students have however informed this website that they have not had a single online lecture since the academic staff are still striking over delayed salary enhancement.
The students also complained about the slow and unreliable Makerere e-learning platform, MUELE which they claim does not have the study content they require. The students also tasked the university to assess the performance of online learning during the last semester before moving to implement it this year.
Makerere university plans to teach students in a staggered manner as directed by President Museveni while ordering the resumption of lectures starting 1st March. Makerere expects to receive freshers for on campus studies while other students remain home.
