University of Ghana (UG Sakai) 2024/25

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University of Ghana (UG Sakai) 2024/25

Details and Features of the University of Ghana online Learning Platform (Sakai). In the wake of the digital age, educational institutions worldwide have been increasingly turning to e-learning platforms to enhance their teaching and learning experiences. One such institution leading the way in West Africa is University of Ghana, which has embarked on a journey to revolutionize education through its e-learning platform. This article explores the University of Ghana e-Learning Platform, its features, benefits, and the impact it has had on both students and educators.

Students should login to University of Ghana Students Portal.

The Introduction and Growth of E-Learning in Ghana

E-Learning is a global phenomenon that has been gaining momentum over the past few years. In Ghana, like many other African countries, access to quality education has been a challenge due to various factors, including limited resources and a growing student population. University of Ghana recognized the need for an innovative approach to address these challenges and embarked on a mission to provide accessible and high-quality education to its students.

The University of Ghana e-Learning  (Sakai)

1. Resources Deployed to Support Online Teaching and Learning 

A variety of electronic resources are available to all UG Faculty and Staff during the period of the closure.

a. Zoom Meetings:  Zoom has been activated to host Virtual Meetings at the University of Ghana.  These can be used to schedule meetings with Faculty/Administrative Staff or hold ‘live’ sessions with UG students. Zoom Meetings are managed by the various UG College Secretaries whom you can contact for more information on how to set up a Virtual Meeting and get permission to access.
College Secretaries:

Mavis Otoo-Ayeh motoo-ayeh@ug.edu.gh  (College of Humanities)

Emelia Agyei-Mensah

eagyei-mensah@ug.edu.gh

College of Education)

Emmanuel Baidoo ebaidoo@ug.edu.gh

(College of Basic & Applied Sciences)

Michael Opare-Atuah

mopare-atuah@ug.edu.gh

(College of Health Sciences)

b. Sakai Learning Management System (LMS): As part of efforts to assist faculty and students navigate through the Sakai Learning Management System (LMS), the following tutorials have been developed to guide faculty and students.
• How to login and logout of Sakai
• How to Reset your password
• How to use the Commons tool
• How to use the Forums tool
• How to use the Chatroom tool
• How to use the Resource tool
• How to use the Test and Quizzes tool

Visit the UG Sakai LMS (https://sakai.ug.edu.gh)

for these and more training manuals and video tutorials on how to use the tools in the learning management system.

You can reach the E-learning team via sakai@ug.edu.gh for enquiries and further assistance.

c. Google Classroom is still available for those who already use it.
d. Microsoft 365 Users can make use of Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business and Yammer.

2.Arrangement for Online Sakai Training 

A schedule for online SAKAI training will be circulated shortly.

3. Arrangement for Access: Vodafone Package

To facilitate access to the Sakai Learning Management Platform, Vodafone has arranged for UG Students to pick up new SIM cards available at all Vodafone Retail outlets throughout the country.

Collection of SIM Cards takes immediate effect.

You will receive a monthly data bundle with the following features:

a. 5GB of data
b. 150 minutes of cross-net voice calls plus IDD
c. 100 SMS
d. Free Closed User Group (CUG) calls: Meaning calls between members of the community will be at no cost
e. Free access to University of Ghana digital resources (meaning if you exhaust your 5G data you can still access UG online resources)
f. Roll-over at the end of month of unused data

This arrangement is available for a period of 4 months till the end of the academic year July 2020.

NOTES:

• Students who have already subscribed and paid for the previously advertised UG Vodafone Tertiary Mobile Data Plan will receive 4 months credit under the plan.
• This offer is with respect to Vodafone. As and when other additional mobile telecom resources become available for our students, we will add them to the Vodafone offer.
• Do NOT contact Vodafone Business Help Desk directly for assistance with any problems in collecting your Vodafone SIM card. (STEP 1 below)
• DO contact Vodafone Business Help Desk (0 800 10000) if you have problems in activating the SIM or mobile data bundle. (STEP 2 below).

Steps to follow to collect and Activate Vodafone SIM cards

1. To Collect Your SIM Card . 
a. Check the list of Vodafone Retail Outlets locations to find the one closest to you. (See list below.)
b. Show your National ID (National Passport, Ghana ID card, Driver’s License, Voters ID), Student ID at the retail shop and fill a form to pick up your blank SIM card.
c. Show Staff ID or Student ID, and any of the following IDs – National Passport, Ghana ID card, Driver’s License, Voters ID
2. To Activate Your SIM Card 
a. Visit https://sts.ug.edu.gh
b. Fill in Your SIM Serial number and Phone number(details on pack that you receive)
c. Vodafone will get the SIM provisioned within 24 hrs and you are ready to go!
3. Support Arrangement

An emergency virtual Service Desk has been established to provide the needed support during the period. Please send all service requests to this email address: servicedesk@rt.ug.edu.gh stating your name, student ID, the problem and a contact number in case you need to be reached.

The Impact of e-Learning on University of Ghana Students

The University of Ghana e-Learning Platform has had a profound impact on students’ lives. It has transformed the way they access and engage with education, providing opportunities that were previously unavailable to them.

  1. Increased Enrolment: The accessibility of the e-Learning platform has led to an increase in student enrolment. Many students who were previously unable to attend traditional classes due to geographical constraints are now pursuing higher education.
  2. Improved Work-Study Balance: With the flexibility of online learning, many students can balance their studies with work and other commitments, allowing them to earn a degree while supporting themselves and their families.
  3. Enhanced Learning Experience: Students report a more engaging and interactive learning experience through the e-Learning platform. The multimedia content and collaborative tools have made complex subjects more accessible.
  4. Greater Autonomy: The platform empowers students to take control of their learning. They can track their progress, identify areas where they need improvement, and seek additional resources to supplement their studies.
The Impact of e-Learning on Educators/Academies at University of Ghana

Educators have also experienced a significant shift in their roles and responsibilities with the introduction of the e-Learning platform.

  1. Adaptation to New Teaching Methods: Educators have had to adapt to the digital age, exploring new teaching methods and learning to use various technological tools to facilitate online education.
  2. Expanded Reach: The platform has allowed educators to reach a broader audience of students. They are no longer limited to a physical classroom and can impact the lives of students across different regions.
  3. Streamlined Assessment: The platform has streamlined the assessment and grading process, saving educators time and allowing for more efficient feedback to students.
Challenges Associated with e-Learning Platform

While the University of Ghana e-Learning Platform has brought about numerous benefits, there are also challenges and considerations to be aware of:

  1. Access to Technology: Not all students have equal access to the necessary technology and internet connectivity. Addressing the digital divide is essential to ensure that all students can benefit from e-Learning.
  2. Technical Support: Providing technical support and training to students and educators is crucial to ensure that they can effectively use the platform.
  3. Maintaining Engagement: Online education can sometimes lead to a sense of isolation. Educators must actively work to maintain student engagement and foster a sense of community within the virtual classroom.
  4. Academic Integrity: Ensuring the integrity of assessments and preventing plagiarism can be more challenging in an online environment. Universities must implement strategies to maintain academic honesty.

The University of Ghana e-Learning Platform represents a transformative leap in the field of education in West Africa. It has expanded access to higher education, improved learning outcomes, and empowered both students and educators. However, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its continued success. As the digital age continues to evolve, e-Learning platforms like this one are likely to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of education in Ghana and beyond. With the right strategies and support, e-Learning has the potential to bridge educational gaps and empower students to achieve their academic and career goals.