Mount Kenya University (MKU) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing world-class career opportunities for Kenyan youth through its German healthcare partnership. The university recently bid farewell to its third cohort of nursing students departing for apprenticeship programs in Germany while welcoming the fourth cohort into the initiative.
The program, which began with German Language Training in January 2023, has seen significant progress despite initial challenges. According to MKU Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic & Research Affairs, Dr. Mercyline Kamande, 50 students have successfully attained the B2 certification in German, with 35 opting to pursue careers in Germany.
MKU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi, highlighted the transformative impact of this initiative, emphasizing the university’s dedication to international collaborations that enhance education, skills development, and employability. He credited the partnership with Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences for its instrumental role in providing students with top-tier training and seamless integration into Germany’s healthcare system.
Prof. Jaganyi also acknowledged the invaluable support from the German Embassy, which has expedited visa issuance within a record four-day timeframe, and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which has contributed to German language training and scholarships. Additional partners include AG-Career Hub, Germany, which provides mentorship and professional integration support, and Caritas Hospital, which offers apprenticeship opportunities.
The fourth cohort marks a milestone with the introduction of the Medizinische Technologin für Radiologie (Medical Technologist in Radiology) program, expanding career paths for Kenyan healthcare professionals. Additionally, an AI-enabled German Language Training Program will enhance learning efficiency, increasing the number of students qualifying for international apprenticeships.
MKU Chairman of the Council, Dr. Vincent Gaitho, praised the initiative’s alignment with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He urged the departing students to be ambassadors of excellence and encouraged them to bring back valuable experiences to contribute to Kenya’s healthcare system.
This initiative underscores MKU’s dedication to bridging the employment gap, enhancing technical skills, and ensuring students remain globally competitive, thereby reinforcing Kenya’s position in the international healthcare workforce.
