Sustaining and Expanding Off-Campus eduroam Access for Uganda’s Research and Education Community

4T5A8727 scaled

Overview

This project maintains and expands free off-campus eduroam internet access across Uganda. With over 81,000 students using off-campus eduroam in 2024 alone, the service has become essential for remote learning and research. The initiative responds to revenue challenges faced by RENU due to institutional funding cuts, aiming to ensure continuity of critical connectivity services.

Objectives

  • Sustain free off-campus connectivity through Metro eduroam.
  • Expand hotspot coverage in student-populated communities.
  • Promote digital inclusion and reduce education costs.
  • Strengthen RENU’s financial resilience.
  • Stimulate institutional demand for connectivity services.

Stakeholders / Beneficiaries

  • Students and academic staff across Uganda.
  • RENU as the national connectivity provider.
  • ISOC Foundation as a funding partner.
  • Universities, research centers, and community hotspots.

Implementation / Approach

  • Maintaining and upgrading existing Metro eduroam hotspots.
  • Deploying new hotspots in high-density academic communities.
  • Using data insights to prioritize new deployment areas.
  • Strengthening promotional activities to increase awareness and usage.
  • Collaborating with institutions to integrate Metro eduroam into their ICT strategies.

Results / Outcomes

  • Over 81,000 students accessed free off-campus eduroam in 2024.
  • Reduced reliance on costly mobile data for academic activities.
  • Deployment of additional hotspots improved reach and accessibility.
  • Reinforced institutional trust in RENU services.
  • Contributed to continuity of digital learning despite financial constraints.

Future Work

  • Continue hotspot expansion across Uganda.
  • Develop long-term financial strategies for eduroam sustainability.
  • Engage institutions on co-funding models.
  • Advocate for policy support for free educational connectivity.

Conclusion

This project protects a critical digital lifeline for thousands of learners. By sustaining off-campus eduroam, RENU ensures continuity of access to learning resources and supports the long-term sustainability of Uganda’s research and education network.