The Department of Telecommunication and Information Engineering

Although Telecommunication Systems have both hardware and software, an in depth understanding of theoretical principles influence design, construction, features, operation, and application of the devices and systems. Therefore, training of experts as well as research in the branch of Telecommunication and Information Engineering will be essential for the growth of the Telecommunication sector. The construction of Telecommunication devices and systems begin from identification of need followed by design and construction of Telecommunication solutions for a particular application.

This is then followed by selection of materials that are further modified into electronic components both analogue and digital. These components are then used to develop sections of the Telecommunication System that include a processor, memory, storage, input, output, the power supply as well as the motherboard (that integrates these and other sections together). This is famously referred to as the Von Neumann model. The other representation of Telecommunication System is what is commonly known as the signal flow model, that includes the sensors, pre-filters, analogue to digital converter, the processor, digital to analogue converter, post-filter and actuator all of which are key elements of signal flow through the system from input to output. Apart from hardware, these systems also have the software part which consists of the operating system and the applications software.

The application of telecommunication systems is in almost every sphere of our lives and has become a critical element of social economic development. Indeed, a significant portion of gross domestic product of countries like Kenya and other emerging economies in Africa is because of embracing Telecommunication technological solutions. Some of the sectors that have benefited most from Telecommunication include, industries, medical sector, astronomy, aerospace sector, instrumentation, military, transportation, communication, entertainment and security among many other fields. Specific examples range from Satellite Communication Systems, Mobile Telephony, Internet Communication Systems, Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs), auto-drivers, auto-pilots, robot teachers, robot doctors and nurses, robot soldiers, wireless sensor networks, telemedicine, mobile banking transactions, among others. Other concepts that are integral to application of Telecommunication technology include Internet of Things (IoT), Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, among others.

The common factor in these technologies and applications is Information Technology, which in itself is driven by computer technology and Electrical/Electronic Engineering. This has continued to cement the need for human resource development in Telecommunication and Information Engineering. The Telecommunication and Information Engineering (TIE) training was identified by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in early 2000s leading to development and launch of the course in 2003. Since then, the university has continued training graduates who are highly sought after in different fields locally and abroad. Among the areas that have benefited most from these graduates include state corporations and parastatals that include Communication Authority, Information Communication Technology (ICT) authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), Telkom Kenya to mention but a few.

Other sectors include mobile phone operators such as Safaricom Limited, broadcasting, banks, internet service providers, among others. The curriculum development was carried out based on a need analysis incorporating stakeholders in the industry. Subsequent reviews of the curriculum have continued so as to ensure emerging technologies related to Telecommunication industry are captured for quality training. As part of the support for this quality training Safaricom Limited donated a GSM equipment for our Telecommunication Laboratory worth KSh 80 million which is currently being used for training and research at JKUAT. Indeed, other Engineering disciplines within JKUAT that have utilized this equipment include Electrical/Electronic, Electronic and Computer, Computer Science, Information Technology, and others from School of Business. Besides this lab equipment, many more equipment are available for training and research. The program is at advanced stage of recognition by Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK).

Telecommunication and Information Engineering will also spur growth in the economy, based on our President blue print of a digital economy, where all government functions are expected to be digitized. Indeed, the TIE graduates will drive this digitization and provide support in critical elements such as the Digital Government, Digital Business, Infrastructure, Innovation driven Entrepreneurship and Digital skills and values. The TIE graduates will also support incorporation of digital learning programs from primary and secondary school levels, including universities where content development for learning devices is necessary. Therefore, Telecommunication and Information Engineering graduates will fuel the digital economy that will in turn accelerate achievement of Kenya Vision 2030. With the great leadership from Dean of School, Principal of College and Vice Chancellor of JKUAT, together with support from our local stakeholders (Engineers Board of Kenya, state corporations and industry) and global partners, JKUAT commits to train Telecommunication and Information Engineering graduates who will facilitate current and future revolution in the Telecommunication Industry.