Human Resource Fun House K7 pushes for virtual reality for workforce transformation

The Kikoosi 7 (K7) team, one of the sub groups of the Human Resource (HR) Fun house, which is an affiliate of the Human Resource Managers Association Uganda (HRMAU) has appealed for the integration of virtual reality (VR) into workplace learning and development.

This was during an outdoor movie night themed event aimed at encouraging HR professionals to innovate within their organizations.

With a focus on health and wellness, they launched a wellness challenge and hosted expert discussions from organizations such as Juice Me HR - focused on HR automation, Marie Stopes and Home Doctors Uganda.

A key highlight of the event was the introduction of VR as a learning and development tool, demonstrating how it enhances employee focus and engagement with minimal distraction.

Shamim Walusimbi a team leader of HR Funhouse Kikoosi 7 and a former Vice President of HRMAU noted that the team is now championing efforts to roll out VR technology across different organizations, positioning HR professionals as drivers of the future of work in Africa.

Ms. Walusimbi a board member of the African HR Confederation said that as technology continues to reshape industries worldwide, Virtual Reality (VR) is emerging as a game-changer in Human Resources (HR) and the future of work.

“No longer just a tool for gaming and entertainment, VR is now revolutionizing HR practices, particularly in training, employee engagement, and wellness,” Ms. Walusimbi said.

She  emphasized the role of HR professionals in driving change noting that, “As HR professionals, we must take the lead in adopting innovative technologies like VR. The future of work is evolving, and we need to ensure that we are at the forefront of this transformation.”

The virtual reality concept was first introduced to the K7 community at a golf-themed event held earlier in December 2024 at the Uganda Golf Club. This initiative laid the foundation for its expansion into broader HR applications, reinforcing the commitment of Kikoosi 7 to cutting-edge workforce solutions.

Emmanuel Otim, president of the HR Fun House, encouraged HR practitioners to maintain strong professional bonds:

“Our strength as HR professionals lies in our ability to support one another. By embracing new technologies, we create a collaborative and forward-thinking HR community. Let's continue setting trends,” Otim said.

Joel Kafiire, a presidential candidate for the incoming executive committee of HR Funhouse, highlighted the importance of engaging with HR bodies.

“To fully benefit from initiatives like these, HR professionals should subscribe to HR societies such as the HR Fun House. Investing in professional communities is key to staying relevant in a rapidly changing work environment – and the Kikoosi ideology is working well across the different sub groups to create safe spaces for practitioners to do that,” Kafiire said.

Moses Waswa, the HRMAU’s Public Relations Director and active member of the K7 team, emphasized the same need for HR professionals to subscribe to the umbrella body - HRMAU, to enhance the spirit of work-life balance.

Why integrate Virtual Reality 

Virtual Reality helps in revolutionizing training and skill development. VR-based training is providing employees with a safe, immersive, and engaging learning environment. Companies are now leveraging VR for:

Immersive Learning Experiences: Employees can practice high-risk tasks, such as medical procedures, mechanical repairs, or customer service scenarios, without real-world consequences.

VR helps in Soft Skills Development. AI-driven VR simulations help employees refine leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills.

VR helps in Cost Reduction: Organizations can cut costs related to travel, training materials, and physical training setups by adopting VR technology.

It enhances remote Work and Collaboration. As remote work becomes more common, VR is enabling employees to interact in shared virtual workspaces, fostering better engagement and collaboration.

VR-based environments also enhance creativity by allowing teams to visualize and manipulate 3D models in brainstorming sessions.

VR helps in Supporting Employee Well-being, improves mental health support.

Virtual Reality is set to redefine HR practices in Uganda and beyond. As technology advances, organizations that integrate VR into their training, collaboration, and employee wellness initiatives will gain a competitive edge.