The Engineering Workshop Department at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) launched a two-week training program on February 14, 2025, designed to enhance digital learning in engineering education.

The initiative, in collaboration with the Innovation Center for Engineering Education (ICEE) at Tottori University, Japan, trained staff from the College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC) on digitizing the arc welding process.

The goal was to integrate modern technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), NVIDIA Jetson NANO, and the Internet of Things (IoT) into engineering training to improve learning quality and accessibility.

Facilitated by Assistant Professor Tomoaki Kageyama and Mr. Naoyuki Kawashiri from ICEE, the sessions introduced interactive teaching methods using 3D scanners, iPad Pro, and 360-degree cameras. Participants explored the development of an interactive training application to enhance students’ understanding of welding before they engage in hands-on practice. The use of VR in welding simulations is expected to build student confidence, providing a risk-free and cost-effective training environment while reducing material wastage and the dangers associated with traditional welding training.

Dr. Daniel Omondi, the Workshop Manager, highlighted that digitizing the training process will offer flexible and accessible learning opportunities for both students and lecturers. The platform will allow students to gain essential practical skills at their own pace, ensuring proficiency before handling real welding tasks.

“By integrating virtual learning into engineering education, JKUAT aims to revolutionize engineering training, making it safer and more efficient. The Engineering Workshop is at the forefront of adopting new technologies to enhance research and practical training,” said Dr. Omondi.

Participants, including Mr. Brian Mutugi, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that traditional welding training is often challenging and discouraging due to mistakes and safety concerns. The VR welding simulator, he noted, will enable students to develop confidence and improve their skills in a controlled digital environment before transitioning to real-world applications.

The university plans to expand digital learning solutions across engineering programs to provide students with safer, flexible, and more engaging hands-on training.