In an era where scholarly cross-border engagements are playing key roles in academic and research outcomes, the call for internationalization has never been more urgent. This focus took center stage during a an engagement forum between Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Regional Director Dr. Dorothee Weyler.
The two officials called for stronger cooperation between Kenyan and German universities, with a focus on academic exchange, joint research, and capacity building.
Beyond research and innovation, they noted that the envisioned partnerships will open doors for staff and students to benefit through dynamic knowledge sharing, cross-cultural engagement, and exposure to diverse academic environments that are essential for holistic education.
These efforts, they agreed, are crucial for aligning African institutions with global shifts in education, technology, and geopolitical influence.
The DAAD team, led by Dr. Weyler, paid a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor during their visit to JKUAT for the review of candidates for DAAD-funded PhD and Master’s scholarships in Social Sciences and Water Engineering.
Prof. Ngumi expressed her gratitude to DAAD for supporting JKUAT, noting that the collaboration will be instrumental, especially as the Commission for University Education now requires all teaching staff to hold PhDs.
“We are truly grateful to DAAD for supporting JKUAT and the region by extension for many years. This partnership will go a long way in strengthening our academic capacity,” said Prof. Ngumi.
As the institution hosting the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI), Prof. Ngumi reiterated that JKUAT remains steadfast in its vision of becoming a global centre of excellence, grounded in local and international partnerships.
On her part, Dr. Weyler emphasized that internationalization is no longer a luxury but a strategic imperative for universities seeking relevance in an interconnected world.
She urged JKUAT to submit more applications to the EU-funded mobility fund in order to enhance staff and student exchange programmes.
Dr. Weyler stated that as DAAD celebrates its 100th anniversary since its inception, the institution can look back with pride at its synergistic collaboration with JKUAT and other African institutions of higher learning.
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Production and Extension, Prof. Jackson Kwanza, a beneficiary of the programme himself, lauded DAAD, noting that its impact has been far-reaching, with many staff from JKUAT having benefited from the scholarships. Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration and Finance, also reiterated that DAAD’s continued support has played a critical role in building the university’s human capital and enhancing the quality of academic and research output.
Other speakers during the forum included the Director of PAUSTI, Prof. Turoop Losenge, and the Dean of the School of Biosystems and Environmental Engineering, Prof. Joseph Sang.
