JKUAT in key academic collaboration pact with Mount Kigali University, Rwanda

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has formalised a strategic academic partnership with a Rwandan university, Mount Kigali University (MKU-Rwanda) geared to boost research and innovation.

The pact between JKUAT and MKU – Rwanda is aimed at advancing applied research, innovation and regional higher education collaboration. It was sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Kigali.

The agreement establishes a framework for joint academic programmes, collaborative research initiatives, and structured faculty and student exchange programmes between the two institutions.

It also seeks to strengthen training in industrial and applied research while fostering cross-border knowledge -sharing and innovation within the East African region.

By combining JKUAT’s strengths in science, technology and engineering with Mount Kigali University’s growing academic and research portfolio, the partnership is expected to create new opportunities for students, researchers and faculty members in both countries.

The MoU was signed by JKUAT’s Vice Chancellor Prof Victoria Wambui Ngumi and her MKU – Rwanda counterpart Dr Martin Kimemia.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mount Kigali University Founder and Chairman, Prof Simon Gicharu said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and regional development.

“This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in higher education. Institutions can achieve greater impact when they work together to advance knowledge, research and skills development for the region,” he asserted.

Prof Gicharu also noted that the partnership reflects shared values of excellence, innovation and regional development.

“It also demonstrates a recognition that institutions can achieve far more when they work together than when they operate independently. Partnerships are not just agreements—they are commitments to grow together,” he added.

As part of the event, the Board of Directors also officially handed over the Karembbure Happy Valley grounds to the university administration.

The facility will support academic events, student recreational activities, and extracurricular programmes, contributing to holistic student development and enhanced campus life.

Prof Gicharu said the land was acquired as a strategic investment intended to support the university’s long-term growth. It will also provide a permanent venue for celebrating students’ academic achievements and hosting recreational activities.

The Chairman pointed out that the investment in expanded facilities underscores the university’s long-term vision to create an enabling academic environment that supports teaching, research, innovation, and student well-being.

Gicharu further noted that the partnership between MKU – Rwanda and JKUAT marks an important milestone in strengthening regional academic integration and positions both universities as key contributors to future-ready education, research excellence and socio-economic development in East Africa.