Port-Vila, Vanuatu – 4 May 2023: On 4 May 2023, the National University of Vanuatu (NUV) signed an agreement with the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) to set up an e-learning classroom on VIT’s campus to implement its blended learning delivery modes and provide training for VIT trainers on how to use learning management platforms.
Under this agreement, the NUV will refurbish the classroom and provide 35 workstations, a printer, a projector, five UPS, an audio and video conference system. NUV’s IT team will also install a router, firewall, network access and software maintenance. The VIT e-learning classroom is part of the DIgital REsponse Connecting CiTizens (DIRECCT) program financed by the European Union. DIRECCT is managed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and implemented through the NUV.
The purpose of this three-year agreement is to assist VIT in developing its digitalisation and improve its network infrastructures. The set-up of VIT’s e-learning classroom is worth 15.8 million vatu. VIT will then be in charge of the maintenance of the e-learning classroom.
The NUV’s Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Jean-Pierre Nirua, said “The National University of Vanuatu is delighted to partner with the Vanuatu Institute of Technology. This e-learning classroom on VIT’s campus will highly enhance students’ learning and benefit VIT as a post-school education and training (PSET) institution. It is crucial to encourage the digitalisation of our learning institutions. It is about building institution of the future and a way to mitigate health or environmental crises. The country is made up of many islands and one of our NUV and PSET providers’ priorities is to promote a hybrid teaching model, combining both face to face and distance learning, in order to reach all students on the archipelago”.
The Principal of VIT, Mr. Wade Evans, said “It is an exciting project for the Vanuatu Institute of Technology and its students. The project will not only create a new e-learning space for the students but also reinforce the network and the digital infrastructures of VIT. One of our priority areas under the VIT Strategic Plan 2022-2026 is to enhance teaching and learning approaches that are inclusive, equitable, effective, and innovative. This digital training room will definitely assist VIT in meeting this priority area”.
NUV’s development aligns with the Vanuatu People’s Plan and the Vanuatu Education and Training Sector Strategic Plan. The focus of education and training under NUV and other national institutions is based on the priorities identified in the country’s National Human Resource Development Plan 2020-2030 (NHRDP).
