Prof. Amos Njuguna, Advisory Committee Member

Prof. Amos Njuguna serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics - Transformative Teaching, Learning, and Research (TTLR) and oversees the Academics Division, which includes six Schools, the Library, and Quality Assurance.

A professor of finance, he brings a wealth of academic expertise and a dedication to research and education. With a Doctorate in Business Administration from Nelson Mandela University and a Master of Business Administration from Egerton University, he holds dual professional qualifications as a Certified Public Accountant in Kenya (CPAK) and a Certified Secretary (CS), demonstrating his proficiency in financial and corporate governance matters. As a fellow of the East Africa Social Science Translation Collaborative at the University of California, Berkeley, Prof. Njuguna has engaged in cutting-edge research and cross-cultural collaborations, enriching his global perspective.

Prof. Njuguna has held significant leadership roles, including Chairperson of the Network of Impact Evaluation Researchers in Africa (NIERA), showcasing his commitment to impactful research in the region.

Dr. Paul Okanda, Advisory Committee Member

Paul Okanda graduated with a PhD in Computer Science from Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications in 2006 after which he worked as a Researcher on a number of European Union (EU) funded research projects involving a number of Universities and industrial players all over Europe.

He was previously Associate Dean at USIU-Africa’s School of Science & Technology (SST) and Director, ICT at USIU-Africa. He has published a number of journals and peer reviewed papers presented at International Conferences. He is also a principal author of two books; “OpenPING: A Principled Approach to Construction of flexible Distributed Virtual Environments using Structural Reflection” and “An adaptive Framework for run-time Group-based Communication”.

He is currently an Associate Professor of Computer Science & Technology at United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa). His research interests include Distributed Systems, High Performance Computing (HPC), Artificial Intelligence, e-Learning, Machine Learning, Big Data, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing & Virtualization, Middleware and Sensor Networks.

Prof. Amos Njuguna, Advisory Committee Member

Prof. Amos Njuguna serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics - Transformative Teaching, Learning, and Research (TTLR) and oversees the Academics Division, which includes six Schools, the Library, and Quality Assurance.

A professor of finance, he brings a wealth of academic expertise and a dedication to research and education. With a Doctorate in Business Administration from Nelson Mandela University and a Master of Business Administration from Egerton University, he holds dual professional qualifications as a Certified Public Accountant in Kenya (CPAK) and a Certified Secretary (CS), demonstrating his proficiency in financial and corporate governance matters. As a fellow of the East Africa Social Science Translation Collaborative at the University of California, Berkeley, Prof. Njuguna has engaged in cutting-edge research and cross-cultural collaborations, enriching his global perspective.

Prof. Njuguna has held significant leadership roles, including Chairperson of the Network of Impact Evaluation Researchers in Africa (NIERA), showcasing his commitment to impactful research in the region.

Prof. Philip Machoka, Advisory Committee Member

Philip Machoka is an Assistant Professor of Information Systems and currently the e-Learning Director at USIU Online..

Eannes Ongus, Advisory Committee Member

Mr. Eannes Ongus is the Director, Advancement & Partnership, which oversees departments of Resource Mobilization (Development), Alumni Relations, Partnerships & External Linkages and Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at USIU-Africa. Previously, he served as Chief Manager, Development, leading the university’s resource mobilization/fundraising efforts with a focus on grants, annual and capital campaigns, partnership development and alternative funding models for financing the university’s infrastructural projects. Mr. Ongus also leads the university’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives/commitments to Education, Sustainability and Governance.

Previously, he served, as Director - Fundraising, Grants and Partnership and Diversity Education Institute (DEI) contact for Africa, was Fundraising and External Relations Officer at USIU-Africa, Finance and Administration unit at United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR- Kakuma).

Dr. Peter Kigwilu, Advisory Committee Member

Dr. Peter Kigwilu holds a PhD in Curriculum Studies and Instruction from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, a Masters in Curriculum Studies and a Bachelor of Education both from the University of Nairobi. He has worked as an educator for 23 years, with 15 years at university level. He currently is the Director of Quality Assurance and Accreditation Liaison Officer at United States International University-Africa.

Dr. Kigwilu is a quality assurance and curriculum development resource person for the Commission for University Education (Kenya) and the National Council for Higher Education (Namibia). He is also an educational assessment consultant with the Kenya National Examinations Council. Dr. Kigwilu is a founding member of the Coordination Centre for Networking of International TVET Research in sub-Saharan Africa (CONVET), and a member of the Kenya Universities Quality Assurance Network (KuQAN), the Association for Faculty Enrichment in Learning and Teaching (AFELT) and the East Africa Quality Assurance Network (EAQAN). He is also an Editorial Board Member of the KEMI Journal of Educational Leadership and Management.

Dr. Kigwilu is an accomplished educator, researcher and quality assurance practitioner. He has published widely in referred journals, book chapters and university-level modules in the field of education. He has also supervised a dozen Doctorate and Masters students and currently serves as an external examiner for graduate research in two universities.

Everlyne Anyal Musa, Program Director, e-Learning Initiative, and Secretary to the Advisory Committee

Everlyn is the Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning Initiative at USIU-Africa. She has over 25 years of experience in managing Education and Scholarship programs for individual and organizational capacities' development. She draws various departments, teams, partners and stakeholders together for demonstrated commitment to deliver sustained positive impact through strategy setting, resource and work-plan management, progress monitoring and reporting, stakeholders management and leading teams to reach, mobilize, recruit and strengthen capacities for transformational change and impact. Looking forward to consolidating many years of experience in higher education and leadership development through scholarship opportunities, African diaspora Scholars engagement and online learning as pathways to achieve quality, equity and resilience in education provision to enable all learners, especially the disadvantaged, to develop skills relevant for the current workplace and societal needs.

Everlyn holds an MBA (Strategic Management) from the University of Nairobi and a BA (Literature and Linguistics) from Kenyatta University. Everlyn’s earlier professional engagements include leading the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program – CADFP and mobilized African born Diaspora scholars and the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program – IFP in Kenya focusing on scholarship as a track to social change, inclusion and leadership development. She has published in the area of Higher Education and Leadership and has attended and facilitated many local and international conferences on Higher Education.

Catherine Machyo

Catherine Machyo is an accomplished educationist and expert curriculum developer with a Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum Development. With a deep passion for fostering educational excellence and innovation, Catherine has dedicated her career to designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that meet the needs of diverse learners. Her extensive experience in the field and strong background in educational research and program evaluation has seen her work with various institutions in developing and designing both face to face and online curricula, among them online programs at USIU-Africa. Her proficiency in e-Learning design is exemplified by her ability to create engaging and interactive online learning experiences using various e-Learning tools. Her interest in educational research and program evaluation has seen her conduct research in varied aspects of education.

Collins Kibiwott, Associate Instructional Designer

Collins has over 10 years of experience in educational technology, specializing in various learning management systems and e-learning solutions. He excels at identifying core course objectives and translating them into actionable instructional strategies for online delivery. As a performance strategist and agent of change, Collins brings extensive knowledge in strategic planning, project management, and change management. He is skilled in using content authoring tools such as Articulate Studio 360 and Adobe Captivate, as well as software development in Python, Java, SQL, and JavaScript. Additionally, he is proficient in developing interactive web applications with HTML5, CSS, and PHP.

Collins holds an MBA in Business Strategic Management From USIU-Africa, and has earned numerous certifications, including the Quality Matters (QM) Masterclass for Teaching Online from Arizona State University, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) in Server Infrastructure, Launchpad Masterclass Certification, IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation 2011 Service Management, IBM Big Data Specialist, IBM Business Intelligence Analyst, IBM Predictive Analytics Specialist, and IBM Cloud Application Developer.

Denis Mutegi, Associate Instructional Designer

Denis is an experienced e-learning developer and ICT professional with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Karatina University. He has extensive expertise in developing comprehensive e-learning projects and has served in various capacities, including independent consultant, e-learning developer for UC Global Programs Kenya and Health IT Kenya, and lead instructional designer for OCTOPUS ICT Solutions Limited. His roles have involved content analysis, development, management of learning management systems (LMS), providing technical and learner support, and conducting training sessions. Denis is dedicated to delivering high-quality e-learning solutions and fostering effective learning environments.

Erick Kinungi, Associate Instructional Designer

Erick Kinungi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Film Technology from Kenyatta University and a Diploma in Web and Graphics Design from Nairobits Digital Design School. Currently, he is enrolled in a Master's program in Digital Communication at USIU-Africa. With over 5 years of experience in Information Technology, Erick has excelled as a Multimedia/Web specialist, providing robust support in various ICT-related capacities.

He exhibits a strong passion for online pedagogy and strives for excellence in implementing effective communication practices in online learning environments.

Mary Kamau, Associate Instructional Designer

Mary Kamau is a seasoned educator currently serving as an Associate Instructional Designer at USIU-Africa. She holds both a Master's degree and a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics Education from Kenyatta University, providing her with a strong academic foundation in education. Additionally, she has a diploma in Information Technology, which enables her to seamlessly integrate technology into her teaching methodologies.

Mary is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at Kenyatta University. With over two decades of teaching experience spanning both secondary and tertiary levels, she has developed a deep understanding of pedagogical approaches tailored to diverse student populations.

Committed to professional development, Mary has completed training in the Master Class for Teaching Online. Her diverse educational background, continuous pursuit of advanced qualifications, and dedication to professional development make her a valuable asset to USIU Africa's instructional design team. Her blend of academic expertise, technological proficiency, and extensive teaching experience enables her to contribute meaningfully to the institution's mission of fostering excellence in education.

Allan Magak, Research Analyst

Allan is a skilled expert in Data Analytics, Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He has over five years of experience in the research field, having previously worked as a quantitative and qualitative data analyst in the public sector. Mr. Magak is a co-author of two scientific papers addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and mitigation strategies.

Allan is an experienced professional in data management, modelling, and visualization, committed to project productivity and success. With his expertise in data analytics, Allan focuses on assessing and measuring the process and progress of e-Learning readiness and adoption. He collects, analyzes, and reports data to evaluate the effectiveness of the project. He is also passionate about Data Science, aiming to understand the strategic value of various types of data generated from digital transformation.

Oscar Webala, Associate Instructional Designer

Oscar is a passionate training, learning, and development (TL&D) professional with over 10 years of experience across 3 institutions of higher learning. He excels in various aspects of TL&D, including educational support, designing instructor-led training, and developing creative and interactive eLearning and blended learning solutions.

In his current role as an Instructional Designer, Oscar leverages innovative eLearning strategies to foster continuous learning. He has a keen interest in harnessing the potential of digital learning platforms to create dynamic, accessible, and effective educational programs that align with industry standards.

Oscar holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Resource Management (HRM) and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in HRM from the Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA). He is currently pursuing a Master of Instructional Design and Technology (MIDT) to further enhance his expertise. In addition, he has actively expanded his knowledge through certification courses in online course design, cybersecurity awareness, and Quality Matters, among others.

Oscar is a member of the Distance, Open, and E-Learning Practitioners of Kenya (DOLPAK) and the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM). His passion lies in creating meaningful training, learning, and development experiences.

Michael Mkonji, Associate Instructional Designer

Michael has over 15 years of experience in the ICT field, primarily within higher education. He has served as both an ICT educator and an ICT officer.

He holds a B.Sc. in Computing and Information Systems from the University of Portsmouth, UK, and a Higher Diploma in Management of Information Systems (IMIS), UK.

He is interested in exploring underutilized IT and future internet opportunities in education, both globally and specifically in Africa, as well as how IT can be leveraged to provide education access to marginalized communities worldwide. He is currently pursuing an MSc in Information Security and Digital Forensics.

Marcia Mukalo, Associate Instructional Designer

Marcia is a talented creative professional with nearly a decade of experience in teaching, instructional design, and creative content production. Her expertise includes the effective use of instructional technologies, as well as collaborating with faculty to design and develop curricula that align with learning objectives and cater to diverse student populations.

Marcia has successfully developed and taught online programs for institutional courses in digital arts, including 3D modelling, character design, animation production and motion design. She was also actively involved in the development and revision of the Diploma in Animation curriculum for TVET institutions. Marcia holds a Bachelors Degree in Film production and Animation from Multimedia University of Kenya and has various Instructional design certifications including the Quality Matters (QM) Masterclass for Teaching Online from Arizona State University.

In her current role as an instructional designer in the E-Learning program, she continues to enhance her capabilities in instructional design practices. A creative thinker and highly motivated team player driven by a passion for researching and solving sustainable challenges in education and creative innovation in Africa and beyond.

Levi Ojiambo, Interactive Multimedia Specialist

Levi is a Multimedia Specialist with over 17 years of experience in the media industry as an Advertising Creative and Motion/Broadcast Designer. In his role as a Multimedia Specialist, he assists the online department in the production of videos, from shooting in the studio to post-production editing. He also produces graphical communication materials, both animated and still, to be used on the Blackboard learning management system.

He holds an Advanced Diploma in 3D Animation and Multimedia from ShangTao Media Arts College.

Dr. Bernadette Kiarie, Instructional Designer

Dr. Bernadette Kiarie holds a Ph.D. in Educational Technology, a Master of Education in Educational Communication Technology, a Bachelor of Education, a postgraduate diploma in Computer Systems & Applications and a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design & Performance Improvement, among many other certifications in the field of instructional design and online pedagogy. She is associated with the eLearning Initiative by virtue of being the Instructional Designer at USIU Online, the eLearning implementing Directorate at USIU-Africa.

As a seasoned educator, Bernadette's expertise in instructional design has been instrumental in the eLearning Initiative where she is the Lead –Training, Content Development and Acquisition. Through USIU Online, she has collaborated with colleagues in the Directorate to organize faculty training for the development of effective and high-quality online course content. Within the eLearning Initiative, Bernadette works closely with the Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs), Associate Instructional Designers, eLearning Technologists and Multimedia Specialists. This involves the formation of online course content development teams which consist of instructors, instructional designers, eLearning technologists and multimedia specialists. Content development teams are guided by the Commission for University (CUE) standards and guidelines, USIU-Africa’s online learning policy, procedures and processes to create high-quality online course content for the online programs at USIU-Africa

Deborah Njuguna, Associate e-Learning Technologist

Deborah Njuguna is a dedicated IT professional with a robust background in eLearning, content development, and ICT. She currently serves as an eLearning technologist at USIU-Africa. Deborah holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from USIU-Africa and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Kenya Methodist University. Her skills include troubleshooting, implementing new technologies, managing virtual platforms, and content development.

Deborah also holds multiple certifications, including Cisco Certified Networking Associate, Network Security Associate, Quality Matters, and Monitoring and Evaluation from USIU-Africa. Additionally, she has completed training in the Master Class for Teaching Online. Known for her analytical abilities and team-oriented approach, Deborah is passionate about driving success in competitive, dynamic environments.

Daniel Wambugu, Associate e-Learning Technologist

Daniel is a skilled e-Learning designer with extensive experience in developing and refining online course content. He collaborates closely with multimedia developers and other team members to produce high-quality online learning courses. By employing effective instructional delivery methods and modern course design practices, Daniel provides robust faculty support throughout the instructional design process.

In his role, Daniel serves as a key resource for e-learning technology support, collaborating directly with Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs) on course content development. He integrates cutting-edge technological tools into course materials and adheres to Quality Matters (QM) online course design standards, ensuring that each course meets its learning objectives. Daniel is committed to enhancing educational experiences through innovative design and technology integration.

Daniel holds a BSc in Computer Science from Moi University. His background in ICT and data analysis, combined with his instructional design expertise, makes him a versatile professional dedicated to empowering both learners and educators.

Agnes Njeri, Research Analyst

Agnes is a research analyst with over two years of experience in project management, particularly in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning. Her expertise includes designing research methodologies, developing data collection tools using Google Forms and Kobo Toolbox, conducting data collection, analyzing data using SPSS and Excel, disseminating research findings, writing proposals, implementing impact measurement techniques such as randomized control trials and formulating monitoring and evaluation frameworks,.

She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Statistics and is currently pursuing a Master of Economics (Policy and Management) at Kenyatta University. Agnes has also received training in Monitoring and Evaluation and basic Kenyan Sign Language. Additionally, she is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Agnes supports the project through monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning. Her key roles entail; conducting needs assessments for proposed online programs, assessment of effectiveness of the project activities, and tracking progress to ensure that the outcomes align with the project goals.

Brenda Odhiambo, Lead, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Communications

Brenda is a seasoned communications specialist with over nine years of experience in corporate communications and Public Relations across various sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa. She excels in leadership, communication strategy, cross-functional project management, and stakeholder management. Brenda has a track record of successfully managing PR and Communication initiatives for organizations in higher education, technology, banking, media industries, and NGOs in Kenya and East Africa.

Brenda currently serves as the Communications Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning initiative at USIU-Africa, overseeing the planning, development, and implementation of communications strategies. Brenda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (First Class Honours) from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Arts in Communication Studies (Public Relations Concentration) from the same institution. She has been recognized for her outstanding work ethic, twice winning the award for Best Work Ethic at a previous employer.

Brian Nyamwe, Associate e-Learning Technologist

Mr. Brian Nyamwe boasts nearly 8 years of ICT, Data Science, and Analytics expertise. He is constantly exploring and upskilling in Data Science & Information Systems and Technology coupled with practical experience. He possesses a solid ability to respond to changing requirements and assignments. His proficiency spans multiple technological domains: Education Technology (eLearning), System Administration (Windows & Linux), Programming (Data analytics-oriented Python, SQL & R), Big Data Engineering, Business Intelligence (Tableau & Power BI), Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure & GCP), and Computer Networking.

Brian holds an MSc in Information Systems and Technology from USIU-Africa and a BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science (Statistics Concentration). He is pursuing an MSc in Data Science at the University of Nairobi. His extensive list of certifications includes the; Micro-Master’s Program in Statistics and Data Science by MIT Online, AWS Certified Data Engineer Associate, Confluent Certified Administrator for Apache Kafka® (CCAAK), Designing Your Online Course by Quality Matters (QM), Masterclass for Teaching Online from Arizona State University, IBM Artificial Intelligence Mastery, IBM Big Data Mastery, IBM Blockchain Developer Mastery, IBM Predictive Analytics Mastery, MCSA Windows Server Administration, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

Brian is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) and Kenya National Statistical Society (KNSS) professional organizations.

Henry Nyoike, Associate e-Learning Technologist

Henry holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

He has 7 years working experience in IT in various areas; eLearning systems implementation, Web Development and End User Systems Support.

Ernest Adungo, Instructional Designer and e-Learning Technologist

Mr. Ernest Andugo is an Instructional Designer and eLearning Technologist at USIU-Africa with nearly 14 years of experience in higher education. He has significantly advanced eLearning programs by spearheading the creation of a state-of-the-art eLearning Resource Center at USIU-Africa. This innovative Centre supports content creation and delivery for 20 online programs and features recording studios, pedagogy training labs, and multiple HyFlex facilities.

Mr. Andugo holds a Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design and Performance Improvement from Arizona State University, a Master's Degree in Business Administration from USIU-Africa, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Information Technology from Strathmore University. Certified in Blackboard LMS administration, Quality Matters, and the Commonwealth of Learning, he brings extensive IT service delivery experience to his role. Ernest is committed to developing robust online learning and instructional continuity strategies, focusing on enhancing educational technologies to enrich the learning experience for students and faculty.

Lilian Rondo, Project Administrator, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning Initiative

Lilian is a results-driven professional with over four years of experience in administrative roles. Her tenure at British American Tobacco as a supervisor involved successfully launching and distributing a new product in the market. She excelled as a regional sales executive at Airtel Kenya, providing essential support to retailers and consumers while maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders.

Lilian holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Management from the United States International University-Africa, which has equipped her with a global perspective and solid business foundations. Currently serving as a Project Administrator, she ensures effective coordination and execution of project activities, including planning meetings, travel logistics, and procurement.

As the main point of contact between stakeholders, team members, and project staff, Lilian’s communication skills are invaluable. She is currently pursuing certification in Kenyan Sign Language. Her passion for education and inclusivity drives her commitment to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program e-Learning Initiative, where she strives to deliver high-quality, accessible e-learning experiences.