Prof. Silvance O. Abeka
Board Member
Prof. Silvance O. Abeka is a leading figure in Information Systems and Technology with a specialized focus on e-learning, smart cities, and technology adoption. He is the Founding Director of the Centre for E-Learning and former Dean of the School of Informatics and Innovative Systems at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kenya. With previous experience as Director of the Institute of Open and Distance Learning at Africa Nazarene University, Prof. Abeka’s career exemplifies a commitment to advancing digital education, research, and innovation.
Prof. Abeka holds a Doctorate in Information Systems and Technology, a Master of Science in Computer Science, an MBA in Information Technology, and a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering. His academic rigor is matched by a prolific research portfolio in technology-enabled learning, technology adoption, Artificial Intelligence, blockchain in education, telecommunication, mobile computing, and e-learning, with numerous publications in respected, peer-reviewed journals. He is currently leading the Technology Enabled Learning project and the Commonwealth Digital Education Leadership in Action project, in Kenya, both initiatives supported by the Commonwealth of Learning, aimed at empowering digital education in the region. Other funded projects include; Strengthening JOOUST’s ICT infrastructure Project supported by Belgium Development Corporation through VLIR-UOS, Capacity, Capacity building for synergies, impact assessment and management of international higher education cooperation funds (IPACT- HE) Project and Cooperation for Holistic Agriculture Innovation Nests in Sub-Saharan Africa (CHAIN) Project both funded by European Union through ERASMUS Lump Sum Grants Initiative.
In addition to his academic roles, Prof. Abeka brings extensive experience in corporate and urban governance. He has published several papers in high impact journals on issues related to design and implementation of smart city systems, integration of smart systems for security in slum areas with the aim of enhancing safety and improvement of living conditions through the use of technology. Other research work includes automated infrastructure networks for traffic control, and urban mobility enhancement. Through his roles in academia, research, consultancy, and policy implementation, Prof. Abeka continues to make impactful contributions towards digital transformation in education and sustainable urban planning in Kenya.
Prof. Abeka is a professional member of leading global organizations, including the IEEE Computer Society, Computer Society of Kenya, Internet Society, and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). His board memberships in various public and private sector organizations reflect his ongoing influence and commitment to driving innovation in education, technology, and urban planning.