Hekima University College (HUC) officially received a one-year provisional accreditation from the Commission for University Education (CUE) on August 5 for its Open, Distance, and e-Learning (ODeL) programs. The landmark decision enables the Jesuit institution to project its academic offerings far beyond its physical campus, expanding access to higher education across Africa and globally.
Announcing the news to the HUC community via email dated August 6, Principal Rev. Dr. Marcel Uwineza, SJ, expressed deep gratitude for the collaborative effort and faith that drove the initiative. “With hearts full of gratitude to God, I am delighted to share that Hekima University College has officially received a One-Year Provisional Accreditation for its Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) programs,” Dr. Uwineza stated. He noted that CUE will conduct a follow-up evaluation after one year as HUC continues to enhance its online infrastructure. Dr. Uwineza emphasized that ODeL directly aligns with HUC’s mission to break down barriers to quality Jesuit education, particularly for working professionals and geographically remote students.
The accreditation authorizes HUC to begin online enrollment in five core degree programs, alongside specialized short courses. These include: Bachelor of Migration, Security and Diplomacy, Bachelor of Science in Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship, Master of Arts in Peace Studies and International Relations, Master of Theology (Specializations in Scripture, Systematics, Moral, and Pastoral Theology), and Master of Arts in Spirituality
To support virtual delivery, HUC has established a digital ecosystem that includes smart classrooms, solar green energy across its campuses, and a state-of-the-art, soundproofed ODeL multimedia studio for course production. Addressing common misconceptions surrounding distance learning, Dr. Uwineza called on stakeholders to actively dispel doubts regarding the rigor of digital degrees. Drawing on personal experience, he noted that he completed his MBA at a UK university while serving as principal in Nairobi, without ever setting foot on campus.
“ODeL should not be presented merely as an alternative for those who cannot come to campus, but as a serious, innovative, flexible, and quality mode of university education,” Dr. Uwineza emphasized, reaffirming HUC’s commitment to forming ethical leaders worldwide.
By Pamela Adinda, HUC Communications and International Office Coordinator
