"Education is the key to success” goes the motto of many schools. The reason most people believe that statement is because education broadens one’s mind and opens the door to new and better job opportunities and advances a person successfully in life. As a result, the thirst for education seems unquenchable. It is because of the value attached to it that many parents and countries in the world, including Rwanda, continuously invest huge amounts of money in the education sector. And even after someone has graduated with a diploma or degree, they still want to pursue further studies in order to either secure their job or become more marketable. That is why online education is selling like hot cake worldover. 

But while it is praised for offering a wide range of courses, accommodating the busy corporates and being cheap, online education also has its downside. It for instance denies learners an opportunity to interact with coursemates while some courses may not be recognised by some universities and employers. If for whatever reason you prefer an online arrangement to a face-to-face one, remember to find out if the university is chartered, the integrity of the site owner and instructors, the quality and experience of your instructors, course content and format. Also find out what course materials are needed, size of the class, the price and ratings of the university before you pay any money.

Many people interviewed by Education Times, however, said the system is best for graduates who are simply upgrading their credentials. This does not mean people outside this bracket cannot apply for an online course. The bottom line though is that online education requires commitment and dicipline on the part of the learner. It is worth giving a shot.