Dons call for unity among universities

University Vice-chancellors from East Africa have called for regional integration, internationalisation, and joint recognition of academic programs.

In a three-day National Sensitization Forum on the East African Community (EAC) Common Higher Education Area, the leaders rallied around the goal of transforming the region into a cohesive, globally competitive education hub.

The conference held in Nairobi brought together Vice-chancellors, representatives from EAC member states, the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), and the Commission for University Education (CUE).

Prof. Banyan Kimbona Executive Secretary, IUCEA hailed the progress already made under the EAC Common Higher Education Area.

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“One of the key outcomes is the regional accreditation of programs, which is already operational,” he stated, pointing to a foundational step toward mutual degree recognition across partner states.

Prof Mike Kuria, Chief Executive Officer, CUE, emphasized the historical and political significance of the EAC Common Higher Education Area Declaration, which was signed in May 2017 by the Heads of State, including Kenya’s President William Ruto.

“No university can afford to operate like a village institution when striving for internationalization. We must support our universities at all levels, including enabling their participation in academic exchange programs,” said Prof. Kuria.

The leaders discussed how Kenyan and East African institutions can align themselves with the EAC education vision, stakeholders laying out several practical steps.

These include participation in regional scholarship programs, enhancing faculty and student mobility, promoting cross-border research collaborations, and advocating intentionally for East African universities.

“Pooling intellectual and financial resources will attract top academic talent and drive sustainable solutions,” said Prof. Kuria, underscoring the importance of shared regional investment.

Dr. Wahome Rureri from the Ministry of Education added that the government is taking steps to make Kenya more attractive to international students.

“The Ministry of Education will collaborate with the Commission and the Directorate of Immigration Services to draft a policy document on the recruitment of international students in Kenyan universities,” said Dr Rureri.

“Additionally, universities must enhance the visibility and attractiveness of their websites to appeal to international students seeking to study in Kenya.”

He challenged Vice Chancellors to ensure universities meet the global standards in their courses.

“As we champion internationalization, we must ask ourselves, do our academic programs meet global standards? Does the commission ensure that the university programs it accredits receive global recognition?” he questioned.

The document, once complete, will be submitted to the Cabinet and then Parliament for approval.

“My recommendation is that we establish clear guidelines on how universities will implement brain circulation as part of internationalization,” he added.

Other partners including Dr. Dorothee Weyler, Director of DAAD, echoed the importance of frameworks and collaboration.

“My recommendation is that we establish clear guidelines on how universities will implement brain circulation as part of internationalization. As DAAD, we are ready to provide support once such a framework is in place,” said Dr Weyler.

Prof. Kefa Simwa, Executive Director of the African Network for Internationalization of Education (ANIE), stressed the deeper purpose of internationalization.

“Internationalization is not just about participating in global education; it’s about shaping it. I believe the Commission is well positioned to engage universities and guide them toward achieving true internationalization,” stated Prof Simwa.

Sentiment echoed by Prof. V. Injety, Vice-Chancellor of Adventist University.

“To internationalize our universities, we must first begin by marketing our country, Kenya,” said Prof Injety.

During the same forum, Prof. Fr. Stephen Mbugua, Chairperson of Private Universities in Kenya and Vice-Chancellor of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, joined other leaders in reaffirming their commitment to this shared regional vision.