Kenyatta University hosted a high-level delegation from Cankiri Karatekin University of Turkey during a courtesy visit aimed at deepening academic and research cooperation between the two institutions. The visit marked a significant milestone in a partnership that began in 2023, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize collaborations across various academic areas.
The delegation from Cankiri Karatekin University was led by the Rector, Prof. Dr. Mevlut Karatas, accompanied by Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Muhammed Nuri Oner, and Head of the International Relations Office/Erasmus Institutional Coordinator, Asst. Prof. Dr. Suayip Turan. The team was joined by the Turkish Ambassador to Kenya, Amb. Subutay Yuksel, who headed the diplomatic element of the courtesy call.
Kenyatta University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Paul Wainaina, led the KU team in welcoming the visitors and facilitating discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations. During the session, DVC Academic, Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, supported by DVC Research, Innovation and Outreach, Prof. Caroline Thoruwa, delivered a comprehensive overview of Kenyatta University’s profile, while the Turkish delegation also made a presentation on the profile and strategic focus of Cankiri Karatekin University.
According to the presentation, Cankiri Karatekin University, established in 2007, currently hosts 19,000 students, including over 1,000 international students, with 750 academic staff and a total workforce of 1,328 staff members. The institution offers 158 academic programs and is globally recognized for its specialization in sectoral salt and salt-based strategic products. The delegates also highlighted the strong support the university receives from the Turkish Government through national budget allocations, enabling expansion projects and innovation-driven initiatives.
During the discussions, Prof. Wainaina sought clarification regarding the university’s partnership with two companies engaged in academic-industry collaboration, emphasizing the importance of clarity in such arrangements. He proposed the development of an additional Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to define specific areas of cooperation and to ensure mutual benefits for both universities.
Following constructive dialogue, both teams proceeded to officially sign the MoU, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening academic exchange, research collaboration, innovation initiatives, staff and student mobility, and joint programs under the Erasmus network.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the Kenyatta University main campus, giving the delegation an opportunity to experience KU’s facilities, environment and student culture firsthand.
The renewed partnership ushers in a promising future of increased cooperation between the two institutions and marks a significant step in advancing international higher-education relations between Kenya and Turkey.