The University of Nairobi (UoN) has launched a new national digital learning platform aimed at expanding access to agricultural education and entrepreneurship skills across Kenya.
The platform, known as AgriOPEN Campus, was unveiled this week at the university’s main campus. It is designed to provide accredited training in agriculture through online and distance learning, targeting farmers, young people, and agribusiness entrepreneurs across the country.
The launch followed a five-day workshop held from January 26 to 30, 2026, which brought together government agencies, regulators, international partners and industry players to discuss the future of agricultural education in Kenya.
AgriOPEN, formally known as the Campus for Access to Quality Education in Kenya for Agri-Sector Sustainability and Jobs, is an international project co-funded by the European Union. The University of Nairobi is the lead institution overseeing its implementation, academic standards and coordination.
Speaking on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Mande said the project supports Kenya’s development goals.
“Through open and distance learning, the University of Nairobi is reaching learners across the country and aligning agricultural training with Vision 2030 and the needs of the modern economy,” Prof. Mande said.
Prof. Hutchinson said the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to solving national challenges such as climate change, food insecurity and youth unemployment.
“AgriOPEN will offer accredited, skills-based programmes in sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurship to ensure education leads to jobs and national development,” she said in remarks delivered at the event.
The university is working with international partners, including HAMK University of Applied Sciences in Finland and NHL Stenden University in the Netherlands, alongside Kenyan universities and public agencies.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise Prof. Leonida Kerubo said the project will strengthen global research links while addressing local needs.
The Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) is supporting the project to ensure all digital programmes meet national education standards. KNQA CEO Dr. Alice Wairimu Kande said accredited qualifications are key to keeping online learning relevant to the job market.
The Ministry of Education also backed the initiative, saying open and distance learning can help reach learners in remote and underserved areas.
UoN said AgriOPEN will work closely with partners such as the Kenya National Farmers Federation (KENAFF) and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) to ensure training leads to improved farming productivity, agribusiness growth and job creation.
“By opening education to all, we are helping shape the future of Kenya’s economy,” said Prof. Naomi Mwangi, the project coordinator.
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