EON Reality and Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology Launch First Spatial AI University in East Africa
IRVINE, CA — June 27, 2025 — EON Reality, the global leader in augmented and virtual reality-based knowledge transfer for industry and education, and the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT), a premier center for ICT training and innovation, today announced a groundbreaking partnership to establish the first Spatial AI University in East Africa. This innovative collaboration represents a revolutionary “Third Way” approach to education that transcends the limitations of both traditional brick-and-mortar institutions and conventional online learning.
Spatial AI University, launched through this historic partnership, is pioneering what educational experts are calling the “Third Way” – a revolutionary approach that bridges the gap between traditional on-campus education and purely online learning. This innovative model addresses the growing disconnect between how education is delivered and the rapidly evolving skill demands of Africa’s expanding digital economy.
Traditional university structures have evolved gradually over centuries, but many aspects still reflect longstanding models that are increasingly misaligned with tomorrow’s workforce needs. Meanwhile, online education often lacks the immersive, hands-on experiences essential for deep learning. The Spatial AI University approach combines the best of both worlds while transcending their limitations.
“This transformative partnership with EON Reality represents a significant leap forward for ICT education not just in Uganda, but across East Africa,” said Dr. Fredrick Kitoogo, Principal of the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology. “By embracing Spatial AI technology, we’re creating accessible, world-class learning experiences that will equip our students with the advanced digital skills needed to drive innovation and economic growth throughout the region. This initiative perfectly aligns with our vision of becoming a global standard in ICT skills-based training, research, and innovation.”
The Spatial AI University model delivers education through EON Reality’s Learn-Train-Perform methodology, which transforms abstract academic concepts into tangible, interactive 3D experiences. This approach significantly enhances knowledge retention, skills development, and practical application in a resource-efficient manner ideal for developing economies.
| Aspect | Traditional Universities | Online Universities | Spatial AI University with UICT |
| Learning Environment | Physical classrooms with limited equipment due to resource constraints | Digital courses and readings with no hands-on components | Immersive 3D environments with both virtual and East African contextual components |
| Equipment Access | Severely limited by physical resources and budgets | Typically no hands-on equipment | Virtual access to $50+ billion worth of equipment and laboratories |
| Instructor Availability | Limited by faculty shortages and high student-teacher ratios | Email and forum support with time delays | 24/7 AI mentors plus faculty access |
| Learning Approach | Primarily lecture-based with limited practical training | Reading and video content | Interactive spatial experiences with multisensory engagement |
| Infrastructure Requirements | Requires stable electricity and physical facilities | Requires reliable internet and personal devices | Optimized for low-bandwidth environments with offline capabilities |
| Credential Path | Traditional degrees with fixed timeframes | Certificates or degrees with variable recognition | Stackable credentials from certificates to full diplomas recognized across Africa |
| Geographic Access | Requires relocation or urban presence | Available anywhere with internet | Accessible in rural areas with minimal infrastructure requirements |
| Cost | High tuition plus living expenses | Lower but still significant for many Ugandans | Fraction of traditional costs with community access options |
| Career Connection | Limited industry partnerships | Often disconnected from local job markets | Integrated career pathways with direct connections to African employers |
| Knowledge Retention | Variable based on teaching methods | Often lower due to passive learning | Enhanced through spatial cognition and multisensory engagement |
Through this partnership, students gain virtual access to equipment and resources valued at over $50 billion – from advanced computing clusters and networking equipment to AI laboratories and software development environments – that would be prohibitively expensive in traditional educational settings. Additionally, 24/7 AI mentors provide personalized guidance and support throughout the learning journey, helping overcome the faculty shortage challenges faced by many African institutions.
“The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology exemplifies the innovative spirit and commitment to excellence that makes it an ideal partner for this groundbreaking initiative,” said Dan Lejerskar, Chairman at EON Reality. “Africa represents the next frontier of global digital growth, and our Spatial AI University model, combined with UICT’s deep understanding of local needs and challenges, creates a powerful platform for developing the digital workforce that will drive the continent’s technological revolution. Together, we’re not just bridging the digital divide – we’re leapfrogging traditional educational models to prepare African youth for leadership in the global digital economy.”
This partnership makes premium technology education more accessible through:
The affordability factor cannot be overstated in the African context, as this model delivers premium educational experiences at a fraction of the cost of traditional universities. Students gain access to virtual equipment worth over $50 billion – resources that physical institutions simply cannot provide due to budget constraints. Meanwhile, the 24/7 availability of AI mentors helps address the critical shortage of qualified instructors in advanced technology fields across the continent.
UICT brings its expertise in ICT training to this partnership, having established itself as a premier center for technology education in Uganda. EON Reality contributes its pioneering Spatial AI platform, which includes:
This integrated ecosystem of educational tools creates a comprehensive learning environment that adapts to each student’s needs while maintaining rigorous academic standards. The platform transforms how students interact with complex concepts, making abstract ideas tangible through spatial visualization and hands-on virtual practice.
The Spatial AI University will offer programs across various disciplines, with particular emphasis on fields critical to Africa’s digital transformation:
Each program combines rigorous academic foundations with immersive practical experiences, creating a seamless pathway from education to employment in high-growth sectors.
While based in Kampala, the Spatial AI University will leverage virtual technologies to extend access to quality education throughout East Africa and beyond. The initiative aligns perfectly with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 goals of transformed, inclusive and sustainable economies, and serves as a model for technology-enhanced education across the continent.
“At UICT, we have always been committed to equipping our students with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” added Dr. Kitoogo. “This partnership with EON Reality takes that commitment to an entirely new level by providing immersive learning experiences that were previously impossible due to resource constraints. Our students will now have the opportunity to learn by doing – practicing with virtual tools and technologies that would otherwise be inaccessible. This is truly democratizing access to world-class ICT education, and positions Uganda as a leader in educational innovation across Africa.”
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About Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT)
The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) is a premier center of excellence for ICT training, skilling, and innovation. Through robust partnerships with government, industry leaders, and academic institutions, UICT delivers world-class training in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT) and FinTech; ensuring learners are equipped for evolving technological trends.
With its vision of becoming a world-class Centre of Excellence in ICT skills-based Training, Research and Innovation, UICT remains dedicated to integrating advanced technologies to enhance educational standards and empower future ICT specialists. To learn more about UICT, visit www.uict.ac.ug
About EON Reality
EON Reality is the world leader in Artificial Intelligence-powered Augmented and Virtual Reality-based knowledge transfer for industry and education. With over 25 years of experience, EON Reality is committed to making knowledge available, accessible, and affordable globally. Spatial AI University, launched in 2025, is the first educational transformation platform to use spatial AI technology. For more information, please visit www.eonreality.com.
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