Cape coast: The University of Cape Coast (UCC), in collaboration with the Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (IEPA), has unveiled a new smart classroom designed to advance teaching and learning through digital education. The OS-EASY smart classroom, valued at over $85,000, is equipped with computers, a large digital board, cameras, a public address system, and other devices to facilitate both virtual and physical learning.
According to Ghana News Agency, the facility was developed in partnership with UNESCO's International Centre for Higher Education Innovation (ICHEI), Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), and OS-EASY Group Holding Limited. This collaboration aims to expand educational infrastructure and promote technology-driven high-quality education. During the inauguration, UCC was also named the International Institute of Online Education (IIOE) Ghana National Centre, tasked with providing strategic direction and capacity building to maximize educational technologies nationwide.
Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong, the Vice Chancellor of UCC, expressed the institution's dedication to innovation and excellence, noting that the smart classroom is set to transform the educational landscape. He stated that the facility is a response to the evolving demands of modern education and a commitment to equipping graduates with necessary 21st-century skills. As the IIOE National Centre, UCC will coordinate digital transformation initiatives and foster collaborative policy dialogue.
Prof Michael Boakye-Yiadom, Director-General of IEPA, highlighted the platform's capability to host international and national online programs, promoting online learning across the West African sub-region. Dr Stephen Moore from UCC emphasized the need to invest in digital education and the importance of internet access to eliminate educational barriers. He also warned of cyber threats and stressed the importance of cybersecurity measures.
Prof George K.T. Oduro, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Education, supported the initiative, aligning it with the ministry's agenda to enhance learning outcomes and promote equity through educational technologies. Madam Xiaohon Bi, Deputy Director of ICHEI, and Mr Edmund Moukala, UNESCO Representative to Ghana, both stressed the importance of aligning digital transformation with the needs of the population to alleviate poverty and improve basic service access.
