Information and Communication Technology Directorate

Brief Overview

The ICT Directorate at Aksum University is crucial to the smooth operation of the university’s five campuses. Centralized at the main campus, the Directorate manages ICT functions across all campuses, though it faces challenges in supporting the branch campuses effectively. The Directorate is structured into five key units: Network Infrastructure and Services (which includes Network and System Administration), Maintenance and Support, Teaching and Learning Technologies, Business Application Development, and Training and Consultancy.

The conflict in 2020 severely damaged the university’s ICT infrastructure, presenting significant obstacles to its recovery. Despite budget limitations and resource shortages, considerable progress has been made in rebuilding the infrastructure, though much work remains.

The “Digital Ethiopia 2025” initiative underscores the critical role of digital transformation in aligning with the nation’s broader development goals, particularly within the education sector. This transformation has the potential to generate productive employment, foster inclusive growth, and leverage the competitive advantages of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The Ministry of Science and Higher Education (MoSHE), under Ethiopia’s ten-year national development plan, has implemented initiatives such as the ICT Policy for Education (2018) to support socio-economic progress. This policy promotes a more structured approach to ICT in higher education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

To enhance the teaching and learning environment, Aksum University plans to further recover and upgrade its ICT infrastructure, including the data center, wireless networks, campus security, and e-learning facilities. These initiatives are critical steps toward achieving the university’s goals.

Our objective is to position Aksum University as a leader in ICT enabled Education and ICT innovation within both the institution and the broader academic community. We aim to showcase the university’s achievements through various media channels, including social media platforms and community service activities. Together, we will set new standards in ICT excellence, contributing to the university’s mission of advancing education and research, and paving the way for robust recovery and future growth.

Hierarchical Task force of ICT Directorate

Vision of the ICT Directorate Every unit and community within the university will be digitally enabled.

Mission of the ICT Directorate Ensure that all educators, administrators, and learners at the university fully utilize the opportunities provided by digital technology.

Objective of the ICT Directorate The primary objective is to support the university’s strategic plan and ICT infrastructure as it recovers from the war and addresses post-war

needs. This includes the establishment and implementation of effective ICT policies, expansion and maintenance of ICT infrastructure, identification and proposal of system solutions and training opportunities, and management of data and network security in accordance with legislation and management decisions.

Ambition to Achieve the ICT Directorate’s Goals We are committed to revitalizing and standardizing ICT policies and infrastructure at Aksum University, particularly following the recent damage and looting. Our recovery plan will prioritize addressing ICT challenges, centralizing resource management, automating systems to minimize manual processes, and implementing robust security measures. As the ICT Directorate, we will collaborate closely with all departments, stakeholders, and offices to develop a comprehensive model that optimizes resource management and enhances ICT services across the university, especially in support of the e-learning initiative.

Staff Training and Human Development Plan

  • Training and Capacity Building: Provide ongoing training for ICT staff and specialized courses for students in partnership with universities and tech companies. Training will cover:
    • Office    maintenance    (servers,    switches,    printers,              UPS,                photocopiers, computers, and other ICT equipment)
    • Network infrastructure maintenance and configuration
    • System administration
    • Software and database development and administration
  • Training Mentorship and Development Programs: Create mentorship programs to bridge skill gaps and ensure knowledge transfer.
  • Staff Retention Strategies: Implement reward systems and professional development opportunities to retain skilled personnel and prevent brain drain.

Customers and Stakeholders Expectations

Aksum University’s ICT Directorate serves a diverse group of customers and stakeholders, each with specific expectations. These include university students, faculty, administrative staff, and external partners such as government bodies, industry collaborators, and the community at large.

  • Students expect reliable access to digital resources, seamless online learning experiences, and up-to-date technology to support their academic endeavours.
  • Faculty requires robust ICT systems that facilitate research, teaching, and the management of educational content, as well as technical support to ensure their work is uninterrupted.
  • Administrative staff looks for efficient and secure ICT services that streamline operations, enhance communication, and support decision-making processes.
  • External stakeholders such as government bodies and industry partners expect the university to comply with national ICT standards and contribute to broader socio- economic goals through technology-driven initiatives. They also look for collaborative opportunities that leverage the university’s ICT capabilities for mutual benefit.

Meeting these expectations requires the ICT Directorate to maintain high standards of service, ensure the security and reliability of its systems, and continuously innovate to stay ahead of technological trends.

Context to Applied Science-Oriented Staff Competency

To effectively support Aksum University’s mission of advancing education and research, the ICT Directorate emphasizes the development of applied science-oriented staff competencies. This involves equipping ICT staff with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to handle the complex and dynamic challenges of managing modern digital infrastructures.

  • Technical Proficiency: Staff members are expected to possess strong technical skills in areas such as network management, system administration, software development, and cybersecurity. This ensures they can maintain and enhance the university’s ICT infrastructure effectively.
  • Problem-Solving Abilities: The ability to analyse and address technical issues quickly and efficiently is crucial. Staff must be trained to apply scientific principles and methodologies to troubleshoot and resolve ICT-related problems.
  • Innovation and Adaptability: Given the fast-paced nature of technological advancement, ICT staff must be innovative and adaptable, continuously learning new tools and technologies to keep the university’s systems up to date.
  • Collaboration: Competency in applied science also includes the ability to work collaboratively with other departments, stakeholders, and external partners to develop and implement technology solutions that meet the university’s needs.