University of Ghana marks 10 years of Sakai LMS, calls for nationwide digital education drive

The University of Ghana’s School of Continuing and Distance Education (SCDE) has celebrated a decade of integrating the Sakai Learning Management System (LMS), with a call for a nationwide push toward digital education.

The anniversary event, held at the Cedi Conference Room under the theme “Reflecting on a Decade of the Sakai LMS Journey at the University of Ghana,” brought together lecturers, administrators, and education stakeholders to reflect on the role of blended learning in Ghana’s academic landscape.

Professor Yaw Oheneba, Chairperson of the Planning Committee, traced Sakai’s journey from pilot projects to full-scale adoption, noting its pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the platform exposed both strengths and digital gaps, adding that early digital literacy and blended learning habits are essential for preparing future generations.

He urged collaboration with basic and senior high schools to build foundational digital skills and called on the university to champion Pan-African digital education through cross-continental partnerships and culturally relevant resources.

In a message delivered on her behalf, Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo highlighted that the Sakai experience goes beyond convenience. “It is about resilience, adaptability, and the future of higher education,” she said, stressing the importance of responsibly integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics.

Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Cudjoe, Provost of the College of Education, described Sakai as a catalyst for innovation and continuity, noting that the two-day conference offered an opportunity to critically assess its impact and reimagine adaptive learning.

The programme featured breakout sessions, panel discussions, and presentations, including one themed “From Sakai to Lifeline: Unpacking the Transformational Role of Sakai LMS for Seamless Academics.”

Sakai, a free and open-source LMS, is used worldwide to support teaching, research, and collaboration, helping institutions manage online courses and digital academic content.