Emerging Pandemic Threats Program SUCCESS STORY – EAST CONGO

In line with its objective to introduce appropriate technologies, RESPOND collaborated with Makerere University School of Public Health (MUSPH) to create a dynamic multimedia e-learning platform and knowledge management system, known as Makerere University Sciences Knowledgebase (MUSK). MUSK's objectives include enhancing co-curricula development through sharing of teaching materials, creating a knowledgebase for different academic disciplines, improving access to journals and teaching materials, improving communication between students and academic staff, and improving the use of multimedia in teaching and learning. The initiative is being implemented at two locations, MUSPH and College of Veterinary Medicine (COVAB). The development of MUSK was based on the successful model at Tufts University, called Tufts University Sciences Knowledgebase (TUSK). The platform was launched in June 2011, attended by approximately 80 students and faculty from both schools. Two support staff from Makerere received training at Tufts University, and a team of eight implementing staff were trained at Makerere. More than 120 faculty and students were trained to use the platform on a one-on-one approach in the period of July to September 2011. Since its launch, MUSK has seen significant growth, with more than 500 faculty and students (71%) enrolled on the platform. In addition, more than 500 files with teaching materials have been uploaded at both campuses. The RESPOND initiative has also provided support for the procurement and installation of new servers at MUSPH and COVAB, as well as additional procurements for a microwave relay between the two schools. This platform is already increasing curriculum co-development and knowledge sharing between public health and veterinary professionals at Makerere. The RESPOND initiative's support has enabled the development of a robust e-learning platform that is enhancing the capacity of Makerere University to respond to emerging pandemic threats. The implementation of MUSK has been successful, with a significant increase in the number of faculty and students using the platform. The platform has also facilitated the sharing of teaching materials and knowledge between public health and veterinary professionals. The RESPOND initiative's support has been instrumental in the development and implementation of MUSK, and its impact is expected to continue in the future. The platform's ability to enhance curriculum co-development and knowledge sharing between professionals is a significant step towards improving disease outbreak surveillance and response in the region.