Mount Kenya University (MKU) has dispatched its third cohort of trained healthcare apprentices to Germany, where they will begin their careers in the healthcare sector.
On Friday, 12 students departed for Germany, joining two previous cohorts that had already left last year. Meanwhile, the university welcomed Cohort 4, who will undergo training in healthcare and German language studies as they prepare to embark on their careers later this year.
At MKU, the apprentices receive comprehensive training in healthcare disciplines, including nursing, alongside German language instruction. The initiative is part of a collaborative effort between MKU and various institutions that facilitate paid apprenticeships and employment opportunities for young Kenyans in Germany.
MKU’s partners in this program include Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), AG-Career Hub (Germany), and Caritas Hospital in Bad Mergentheim & Tauberbischofsheim.
During a send-off event on Wednesday, the Cohort 3 apprentices received their work permits, visas, and air tickets, ready to commence their new journey in different German hospitals.
“We are confident that we are sending out highly competent individuals into the workforce,” said Prof. Vincent Gaitho, Chairman of the MKU University Council, during a luncheon held in their honor.
Prof. Gaitho emphasized that MKU’s partnerships with German institutions have played a vital role in providing students with practical exposure, bridging the gap between academic training and industry needs. He noted that many higher education institutions struggle to align their programs with industry demands, but MKU has made significant progress in ensuring its healthcare training meets sector expectations.
“Through our collaborations, we have successfully connected our students with real job opportunities. Those who left in previous cohorts are already working, and now you are also stepping into the global workforce,” he said.
“This partnership is a true demonstration of academia-industry linkage—something that has been lacking in many university programs across the country. Often, students graduate without clear industry connections, but we are changing that narrative.”
Prof. Gaitho further highlighted that the program aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10 on reducing inequalities. In 2021, MKU was designated as a hub for SDG 10 under the UN Academic Impact initiative.
“This initiative exemplifies our commitment to reducing inequalities. These students, once modest graduates of MKU, are now joining the ranks of global professionals. Indeed, MKU is a catalyst for bridging social and economic gaps,” he stated.
“MKU remains committed to skill development and preparing students for the job market. Through this program, we ensure that our graduates do not simply seek opportunities—they possess the skills that make them highly employable.”
Encouraging the students, he added, “Go forth, excel, and make your families, your university, and your country proud.”
MKU Vice Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi reaffirmed the university’s dedication to producing industry-ready graduates, emphasizing its mission to equip students with the skills and opportunities necessary for global success.
