Kenyatta University On Friday July 24, announced that it was mandatory for all students to own laptops to facilitate learning at the institution.
In a notice, the University informed that the requirement was to enable courses offered to be taught through online means where necessary.
"It is therefore for all students in all modes of study who do not own laptops, tablet PCs or iPads to ensure that they acquire any one of these digital mobile learning devices for the online learning," the insitution directed.
The requirement will be applicable to all new and continuing students commencing first Semester, 2020/2021 academic year as all courses will be offered through the blended (face-to-face and online) mode of teaching.
The University further explained on the specifications for the digital mobile learning devices that can be used for the online lectures.
A laptop should have a Windows 8.1/Windows 10 Operating System and the processor should be at least Intel Core i3/Intel Core i5 with a memory of 4GB RAM/8GB RAM and a hard drive of 500GB HDD/1TB HDD.
The device should also have a network wireless card supporting 802.11g/802.11n with the following Input/Output (I/O) Devices: 2 x USB Ports, VGA/HDMI Port, Inbuilt Webcam, speakers and microphone
Software applications required are Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader and a valid Antivirus software Applications
Additionally, the laptop should be accompanied by a USB Drive of 8GB/16GB and should have a 1-year warranty.
As for a Tablet / iPad a Resolution of 1920 x 1080, and Processor: Octa Core 1.6 – 1.8 GHz, with the Internal Storage of 32 GB, 2GB RAM and MicroSD Capability i sufficient.
Other requirements are an expandable memory of 128 GB, battery capacity of 6000+mAh, tablet/ iPad network and internet device connectivity (2G, 3G, 4G), should be bluetooth and Wi-fi enabled with an android operating system
A student at the institution who spoke to Kenyans.co.ke stated that safety was of utmost importance amdist the Covid-19 pandemic.
"I just want to continue with my studies and it is better to study in a safe way (online) than risk going to class and getting infected with Covid-19," the Environmental Management Student stated.
