The National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) is advancing its digital transformation agenda by building its workforce's capacity to effectively utilise integrated digital systems and emerging technologies. Through a three-day ICT Integration Workshop, the University sought to equip its personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance academic excellence, improve operational efficiency and promote informed, data-driven decision-making in support of its institutional mandate.

The workshop brought together academic staff and senior university leadership to explore the application of digital technologies across the University's academic, administrative and management functions.

The training covered key institutional platforms, including the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, Student Management Information System (SMIS), Learning Management System (LMS), Library Management Information System (LMIS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Participants examined how these systems can improve records management, streamline operations, enhance teaching and learning, support research and strengthen evidence-based planning and decision-making.

A key highlight was the focus on Artificial Intelligence and its growing role in higher education. Participants explored its applications in teaching, learning, research and academic administration, as well as governance, ethics, information security and the development of an institutional AI roadmap.

Presiding over the workshop, the Vice-Chancellor, Lieutenant General David Tarus, challenged participants to translate the knowledge acquired into practical interventions that improve institutional performance and advance the University's strategic objectives. He emphasised that successful digital transformation requires more than the adoption of technology; it depends on visionary leadership, institutional ownership, effective change management and a culture of innovation, accountability and continuous improvement.

The Vice-Chancellor further underscored the importance of responsible AI adoption, urging University leadership and academic staff to address the ethical, security and governance considerations associated with emerging technologies. He called on participants to champion digital transformation within their respective areas of responsibility and promote greater integration of systems to reduce operational inefficiencies, strengthen collaboration and improve service delivery. He noted that the impact of the workshop would ultimately be reflected in effective system utilisation and measurable improvements in institutional performance.

The Vice-Chancellor also expressed appreciation to the University of Nairobi Enterprises and Services (UNES) and Dr Davies Segera, an AI expert from the University of Nairobi, for facilitating the workshop and sharing their expertise and practical experiences.

The workshop reinforces NDU-K's commitment to developing a modern, responsive and technology-enabled institution. By integrating digital systems and strengthening its workforce's capabilities, the University aims to advance academic excellence, enhance institutional effectiveness and deliver on its mandate in support of national security and development.