The Open University of Kenya aims to address the pressing issue of limited capacity in traditional universities by employing innovative teaching and learning methodologies, including online and distance education. By leveraging technology and flexible learning modes, the university seeks to accommodate a larger number of qualified students. This role, seeking two highly skilled individuals, serves as a Senior ICT Officer and Research Assistant, focusing specifically on Educational Technology (EdTech) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct research in emerging educational technologies, with emphasis on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, learning experience technologies, predictive analytics, next-generation learning platforms, and student support innovations.
- Pilot Generative AI tools (LLMs) for personalised learning and student support, and assess ethical AI practices in education.
- Implement data pipelines to harvest student performance data, using predictive analytics to identify at-risk students and improve retention.
- Design proofs-of-concept (PoC) for virtual labs, AR/VR learning environments, and gamified learning modules as part of EdTech Innovation.
- Translate complex educational data into actionable dashboards using PowerBI, Tableau, or Python/R for data visualisation.
Required Qualifications and Competencies
For appointment to this grade, one MUST have:
Must Have:
- Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Business IT, or any other equivalent qualification from a recognised Institution is required.
- Well-versed in modern AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, Agentic AI, automation tools, and responsible AI practices is necessary.
- Solid understanding of AI and Machine Learning concepts is required, including Natural Language Processing, Chatbots, and effective Gen AI prompting techniques.
- Proficiency in Data Analysis is necessary, specifically using Python (with the Pandas and NumPy libraries), the R statistical programming language and SQL.
- Experience is required in Research activities, encompassing high-quality technical writing, contributing to grant proposals, and conducting detailed feasibility studies.
Essential Professional Certifications
Candidates must possess relevant Professional Certifications, including:
- Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate qualification.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate qualification.
- PCAP - Certified Associate in Python Programming qualification.
- AWS Certified Machine Learning - Specialty qualification.
- Tableau Certified Data Analyst qualification OR Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst Associate qualification.
Note on Terms of Service:
The Terms of Service will be either Permanent and Pensionable OR Contract, as shall be determined by the University Council.
.png){kind=logo}
.png){kind=logo}
