On Thursday, 14th November 2024, Kenyatta University warmly welcomed a high-level delegation from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Nigeria. The delegation, led by Prof. Idris Bugaje, a Member of the Board of Trustees TETFund and the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), paid a courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor at 10:30 am.

This visit underscores the strong partnership between Kenyatta University and TETFund, which has flourished for over seven years. The delegation’s mission included an interaction with five TETFund-sponsored scholars currently pursuing postgraduate studies at Kenyatta University. As part of their academic inspection and verification exercise, these scholars presented their progress reports, providing an opportunity for TETFund to review their development and offer tailored support.

Key Highlights of the Courtesy Call:

1. Strengthening Partnerships: Discussions centered on enhancing collaborations between Kenyatta University and TETFund, particularly in capacity building for teaching staff in higher education institutions in Nigeria.
2. Engagement with Scholars: The TETFund delegation received updates from their sponsored scholars and emphasized their commitment to supporting academic excellence.
3. Promoting Academic Staff Training and Development (ASTD): TETFund reaffirmed its dedication to advancing quality education by funding scholarships for Nigerian academics pursuing postgraduate studies globally, a key focus area under its intervention programs.

About the TETFund Delegation:

• Prof. Idris Bugaje: An accomplished scholar and administrator, Prof. Bugaje holds a Ph.D. in Energy Engineering from the University of Newcastle. He has over 40 years of service, specializing in Renewable Energy research, particularly Biofuels, and holds five patents.
• Mrs. Ebere Nwobu Ogoma: Assistant Director, Head of SERVICOM Division, TETFund Directorate.
• Salisu Zaharaddeen Maska: Principal Administrative Officer, Academic Staff Training and Development, TETFund.

Kenyatta University Representatives:

• Prof. James B. Kung’u: Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
• Prof. Caroline Thoruwa: Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Outreach).
• Prof. Samson Ondigi: Executive Dean, School of Education & Lifelong Learning.
• Dr. Richard Wafula: Executive Dean, School of Law, Arts and Humanities.
• Prof. Jackline Nyerere: Director, Centre for International Programmes and Collaboration.

This visit highlighted the shared vision of Kenyatta University and TETFund in fostering academic excellence and mutual growth through international partnerships. The University looks forward to expanding its collaboration with TETFund in the years ahead, enhancing opportunities for academic training, research, and institutional development.

Making Waves: How KU’s Drama Team Sparked Social Change at KUPAA 2024

 Kenyatta University (KU) made a remarkable impact at the 6th Edition of the Kenya Universities Performing Arts Association (KUPAA) Festival, held at Egerton University, which saw participation from around 40 universities. With multiple accolades and standout performances, KU’s Drama Team left an indelible mark on the festival. This year’s theme, "Embracing Performing Arts for Social Behavior Change," explored the power of the arts to drive transformative social messages. Under the visionary leadership of Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, the KU Drama Team presented a series of performances that challenged societal norms, sparked conversations, and inspired deep reflection.

Main Performances and Categories

1. "Echoes of Machismo": A Bold Exploration of Masculinity

Echoes of Machismo, written and directed by Derrick Waswa and produced by Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, was one of the festival’s standout performances. The play explored the often-unseen struggles of men, delving into the confines of toxic masculinity and societal expectations that limit male expression. Addressing sensitive issues like intimate partner violence, substance abuse, and police brutality, the performance challenged audiences to reconsider their perceptions of masculinity. The play’s raw portrayal of identity, vulnerability, and power urged viewers to reflect on the silent battles men face and rethink the norms that shape male identity.

2. "Nasieku" in the Mash-Up Category: A Story of Culture Shock and Advocacy

Joan Cherono, a second-year Theatre Arts & Film Technology student, delivered a powerful performance in Nasieku, which explored the jarring transition from rural to urban life. The play highlighted themes of social inclusion, coming-of-age, menstrual health, and the role of education in advocacy. Nasieku’s story resonated with the challenges of navigating cultural shifts and fighting against victimisation. Supported by first-year student Fenwick Gabriel and fourth-year student Omar Osore, this performance brought attention to the transformative power of education and social inclusion in shaping individual growth and societal change.

3. "Fungututi": Advocating for Equitable Education Funding Through Dance

Fungutut, a captivating Creative Cultural Dance, addressed the inequities within Kenya’s Higher Education Funding Model. Choreographed by Kevin Lubang'o and produced by Prof. Wanjohi, the performance symbolised the struggles of disadvantaged students facing a system that often leaves them behind. Through expressive movement and storytelling, Fungututi served as a powerful call to action, advocating for an equitable education system that supports all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.

4. "The Last Spear of Nandi": A Tale of Resistance and Legacy

This historical drama brought to life the fierce resistance of the Nandi people against British colonial forces. Centered around the leadership of Orkoiyot Koitalel Arap Samoei and Kimnyole, The Last Spear of Nandi explored themes of cultural identity, bravery, and the sacred connection to land. The play highlighted the Nandi’s fight for justice and sovereignty, offering timeless lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Additional Performance Categories

Kenyatta University’s drama team also excelled in several unique performance categories:

- One-Person Play: A solo performance that showcased the ability of a single actor to convey complex narratives and emotions through monologue.

- Choral Verse: A group performance that utilised rhythmic, synchronised speech to evoke strong emotional resonance, emphasising the power of collective voice.

- Legislative Play: A performance designed to address social or political issues, aiming to provoke thought and inspire action.

- Comedy: A genre that offered humour and lightheartedness, subtly addressing serious societal themes through wit and satire.

- Shadow Theatre: A visually striking performance that used shadows and silhouettes to tell a story, creating a magical, almost mystical effect.

Awards and Recognition

At the festival’s awards ceremony on November 16, 2024, Kenyatta University was celebrated for its outstanding contributions. Key awards included:

- Best Direction of a Play, Best Design, Best Costume, Best Production, and Best Scripted Play for Echoes of Machismo.

- Overall Winning Play in the Shadow Play category for KU’s innovative shadow theatre performance.

- Best Female and Male Actor in Historical Play for Nyambura Polette and Trevor Aseri in The Last Spear of Nandi.

- Multiple awards in the English Play category, including Best Cast, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Actor.

- Best Artist in a Mash-Up for Joan Cherono’s portrayal of Nasieku and Best Experimental Mash-Up for the creative fusion of genres and themes.

KU also earned recognition in the Creative Cultural Dance category and was commended for its Indigenous Play, which celebrated cultural heritage while addressing contemporary issues.

A Celebration of Art and Advocacy

The KUPAA Festival, held from November 8 - 16, 2024, was a vibrant celebration of drama, radio/film, beauty pageantry, and visual arts. Kenyatta University’s contributions underscored the vital role that performing arts can play in addressing complex social issues and providing a platform for dialogue and change. By blending storytelling with advocacy, the KU Drama Team embodied the festival’s theme and demonstrated the transformative power of the arts in reshaping societal narratives.

Leadership and Support

The festival’s success was made possible by the visionary leadership of Prof. Waceke Wanjohi and the support of Dr. Evelyne Hongo, patron of the Department of Communication, Media, and Film Studies. Together, they have nurtured a team dedicated to using the performing arts as a tool for social change and cultural preservation.

Looking Ahead

As the festival concluded, Kenyatta University stood out as a leader in the performing arts, demonstrating the power of creative expression to drive social change. With its innovative performances and commitment to advocacy, KU’s drama team is poised to continue making waves in the arts, inspiring future generations and setting the standard for excellence in the national and international arena.

 HP and the United States government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Center (RLC) for East Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding signifying the next phase in the longstanding partnership between HP and the YALI program.Building on the success of HP Life online courses, which became part of the YALI curriculum during the pandemic, this MOU will incorporate HP Gaming Garage into YALI’s leadership training, expanding digital and technological opportunities for both new participants and alumni.

The signing took place during the 2024 YALI Alumni Expo and Trade Show in Cape Town, South Africa, which is celebrating YALI impact on the continent. The event showcases YALI 600 alumni from across Africa. HP and USAID began exploring the integration of HP’s Gaming Garage, a comprehensive online game design and coding program, into the YALI curriculum earlier this year.

The HP Gaming Garage promotes and encourages students to gain skills needed to enter the gaming and electronic sports (esports) industry and acts as a platform to connect students with industry leaders. It is a high-tech gaming lab equipped with the latest gaming PCs, Monitors, Accessories, and a collection of Ubisoft games. Students are welcome to experience the HP Gaming Garage during common hours on Open Playdays.

Through the HP Gaming Garage, students can access curated programs to build soft skills and expertise specific to the gaming industry. They can also connect directly with game development and electronic sports (esports) industry experts through industry encounter sessions. The HP Gaming Garage crew also organizes various competitions, such as online gaming tournaments and hackathons.

The Young African Leaders Initiative is the U.S. government’s signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders. It has been promoting effective public administration, fostering entrepreneurship and business opportunities, and cultivating civic leadership among African youth since 2010. This is a demonstration of the U.S. government’s commitment to strengthening the ties between the American people and Africa.

The 2024 YALI Alumni Expo and Trade Show provides a platform for alumni to highlight their innovative work in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development. This event celebrates the diverse accomplishments of the YALI alumni while fostering new partnerships and strengthening ties across Africa.

From 21st September to 30th October 2024, a delegation from Kenyatta University (KU), led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, conducted a strategic visit to Greece under the Erasmus+ programme. The visit aimed to expand KU’s academic partnerships, enhance research collaboration, and promote student and staff mobility. Hosted by the University of Piraeus (UNIPI) for the 6th International Staff Week, the delegation included Dr. Esther Munyiri, Director of the GTRCMC-EA, and Dr. Kennedy Monari of the Chandaria Innovation and Incubation Centre.

Throughout the week, the KU team participated in discussions with seven institutions, including the University of West Attica, Harokopio University, National

Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Agricultural University of Athens, Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, and the Youth Makers Hub. These discussions focused on strengthening MoUs, exploring joint research opportunities, and creating new internship pathways. Each institution brought unique strengths, from NTUA’s engineering focus to the Agricultural University of Athens’ expertise in sustainable agriculture.

The delegation also assessed the experiences of KU students currently interning and studying in Greece, reinforcing the positive impact of these programmes on student development. Additionally, discussions about future student placements and academic exchanges promise to broaden KU’s international scope.

Cultural engagement included visits to the Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and historic Greek islands, enriching the delegation’s cultural

understanding and supporting deeper ties. The visit laid strong foundations for sustainable partnerships that will benefit KU’s research, teaching, and student development, reinforcing KU’s role as a leading institution in global academic collaboration.

The VC delegation with other participants at the 6th International Staff Week at the University of Piraeus

Testimonial by Byron George Otieno, Bachelor of Library and Information Science, 3rd Year

Stay in Greece: September to December 2024

My journey to Greece as part of the Erasmus+ KA171 exchange programme with the University of Piraeus has been transformative, both academically and culturally. Arriving in Greece in early September 2024, I was warmly welcomed by the International Relations team at the University of Piraeus. Working under Dr. Christina Kontogoulido and her exceptional team has been both inspiring and insightful. Engaging in tasks within my field of informatics, I contributed to project proposals and international collaborations, including the ERASMUS-EDU-2024-CBHE-STRAND-1 initiative, aimed at modernizing higher education institutions in Cambodia and Vietnam.

The cultural exposure in Greece has been equally enlightening. From exploring ancient Greek mythology and iconic islands like Hydra and Poros, to tasting local delicacies such as “Souvlaki,” every experience has enriched my understanding of Greece’s rich heritage. The country’s dedication to inclusivity, especially in tourism, left a strong impression on me, with provisions for people with disabilities being a common sight.

As I continue this four-month journey, I look forward to deepening my knowledge, expanding my skills, and contributing to the collaboration between Kenyatta University and the University of Piraeus. This exchange has been an invaluable opportunity to bridge cultures, share knowledge, and build lifelong connections.

For more about my experience in Greece, please visit my photo and video gallery here.

Byron George Otieno in Greece

Testimonial by Faith Wangari Muriithi, Bachelor of Education (Arts): English and Literature, 4th Year

University of Piraeus Placement Programme – September to December 2024

As a 23-year-old Kenyan student from Kenyatta University, my experience in Greece has been a journey of cultural immersion, personal growth, and academic challenge. Being in a new country has offered me a unique opportunity for self-reflection and development, particularly as I navigate the language barrier and adjust to Greek culture.

At the University of Piraeus, my project focuses on fostering international relations between Kenyan and Greek universities to create reciprocal internship opportunities. This work has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, requiring research on both local and international internship programmes and providing invaluable learning through continuous feedback from supervisors.

The Greek culture has been wonderful to experience, from friendly “Yassou” greetings to delicious foods like “Souvlaki” and “Pita.” Adjusting to the higher cost of living has been a challenge, but it’s taught me essential budgeting skills. Overall, this placement has enriched my academic and personal life, and I look forward to what lies ahead.

For a glimpse of my experience, view my photo gallery here.

Faith Muriithi, A KU student with other international students in Greece

Testimonial: Erasmus+ Mobility Programme Experience

Student Name: Juliet Mesa, PhD in Tourism Management
PhD Topic: Crisis Management Strategies in Building the Resilience of Tourism Organizations during Crisis in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Home University: Kenyatta University, School of Economics, Business and Tourism, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Host University: University of West Attica, School of Administrative, Economics, and Social Sciences, Department of Tourism Management
Type of Mobility: Student Mobility for Dissertation

Participating in the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme at the University of West Attica has been an enriching experience, providing invaluable academic and personal growth. This opportunity has allowed me to delve into a new culture, gain insights into Greek perspectives on crisis management, and access resources beneficial to my PhD research on resilience-building strategies for tourism organizations.

Upon arrival in Greece, I received a warm welcome and attended a comprehensive orientation, which highlighted the academic and support services available for international students. Meeting with my academic supervisor further enhanced my experience, as their guidance and support have been pivotal in aligning my research with new methodologies and insights gathered here.

Exploring Greece has been equally rewarding. Visits to the Piraeus Port offered me a close view of one of the Mediterranean’s busiest commercial hubs, expanding my understanding of Greece’s significant role in regional tourism. The Acropolis Museum was another highlight, where I marveled at the architectural elegance and learned about the country’s ancient heritage.

This programme has truly been transformative, broadening my perspective on tourism management and equipping me with the tools and networks needed to support resilience in tourism organizations back in Kenya. The Erasmus+ experience has not only advanced my academic journey but also deepened my appreciation for global collaboration in tourism and crisis management. I am grateful to both Kenyatta University and the University of West Attica for this invaluable opportunity.

Juliet Mesa a PhD student, Tourism Management, from October 2024 to January 2025, who is in Greece, University of West Attica, School of Administrative, Economics, and Social Sciences, Department of Tourism Management