Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is exploring a partnership with Samsung Electronics to establish a Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC) at the university, to enhance youth training in emerging digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), and Coding.

The potential partnership was discussed when Samsung CSR team paid a courtesy visit to Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua. The Samsung delegation was led by Ms. Lefa Makgato, Senior Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Mr. Shaun Yoo.

Ms. Makgato explained that the Samsung Innovation Campus is designed to close the digital skills gap among youth while improving employability.

“Our vision is to create inclusive digital learning opportunities for African youth, and JKUAT is an ideal partner,” said Ms. Makgato.

Prof. Kinyua welcomed the initiative, noting that it aligns with the university’s goal of producing industry-ready graduates.

“We are committed to partnerships that prepare our students for the future of work. The Innovation Campus presents a timely opportunity,” said Prof. Kinyua.

Director of ICT Prof. Stephen Kimani lauded the program’s practical model and said the university is ready to provide technical and logistical support.

“JKUAT has the infrastructure and talent pool to make this partnership thrive,” Prof. Kimani affirmed.

JHUB founder, Dr. Lawrence Nderu highlighted the synergy between SIC and the innovation ecosystem already present at JKUAT through JHUB. He said that the initiative is a natural fit to further grow JKUAT’s capacity in training innovators who can solve real-world problems.

JKUAT is slated to become one of the few universities in Africa to host the globally acclaimed SIC program, joining institutions in South Africa, Morocco, Lesotho, and Vietnam.