Mount Kenya University nursing students gain crucial experience in Germany

Mount Kenya University (MKU) nursing students have gained crucial experience in Germany thanks to an apprenticeship programme conducted in partnership with partnership with Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences .

Two cohorts have already finalised their apprenticeships at the German institution and the thirds is in the final stages of departing the country.

Speaking during the send-off ceremony of cohort 3 trainees, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic & Research Affairs Dr Mercyline Kamande said the programme is a testament to MKU’s shared vision of empowering Kenyan youth with world-class opportunities in the healthcare sector.

She noted that so far, 50 nursing students have gone through the programme after the university overcame language barrier challenges by introducing German Language Training in January 2023.

“Through determination and strategic improvements, 50 candidates have successfully attained B2 certification, and 35 of them have chosen to pursue careers through this initiative,” she said.

MKU Vice-Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said the send-off of cohort 3 and the reception of cohort 4 represents the success of a transformative initiative that is creating global career opportunities for Kenyan youth, especially in the healthcare sector.

He added that this success would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of partners in the ensuring a sustainable pool of nursing professionals” project.

Prof Jaganyi said their partnership with Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences has been instrumental in providing students with world-class training and global job opportunities.

“The German institution is our key academic partner, playing a vital role in shaping this program and ensuring that Kenyan students receive quality education and seamless integration into the German healthcare system,” he noted.

Congratulating both cohorts, MKU Council Chairman Dr Vincent Gaitho said the institution recognises that higher education is not just about acquiring degrees; it is also about equipping students with the right skills, knowledge and networks to thrive in today’s competitive world.

 “We are proud of the partnerships and collaborations that enable our students to gain both academic and practical exposure, particularly in sectors that align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA),” he said.

The chairman said collaborations with institutions such as Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences in Germany are in line with the government’s efforts to enhance technical skills, increase international opportunities for Kenyan youth, and bridge the employment gap.

“The State has emphasised the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a driver for industrial growth,

“At MKU, we support these efforts by ensuring our programs are aligned with industry needs, global trends and international standards,” he added.

Dr Gaitho said the maritime, healthcare, engineering, and logistics sectors—where many of MKU students will be placed—are critical to Kenya’s economic growth and international trade.

“We are committed to working closely with government agencies such as the Kenya Maritime Authority, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Labour to ensure that our students are well-prepared to seize opportunities both locally and internationally,” he said.

“The global job market is competitive, but Kenya has some of the most talented youth. Use your training to make a difference. Represent our country with dignity and showcase the values of hard work, discipline, and innovation,” he exalted.

Dr Gaitho reaffirmed the University Council’s commitment to supporting the government policies on higher education, youth employment, and global workforce integration.

“We will continue to work with both the private and public sectors to ensure that our students are globally competitive, professionally trained, and ready to contribute to national development,” he stated.