Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is set to offer students a transformative academic experience through a new partnership with Curtin University, Australia.
The two institutions are finalizing a joint five-year programme in Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering, which could later expand to Marine Engineering, tapping into the maritime and blue economy sectors.
The initiative was crystallized following a courtesy visit by Curtin’s leadership to JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi, on July 10, 2025, which comes as global institutions increasingly team up to address specialized training and research needs through international collaboration.
Under the proposed model, students will study at JKUAT for three years, then complete the remaining two years at Curtin University. Sponsored learners will benefit from world-class exposure, gaining skills aligned with global industry standards.
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Prof. Ngumi praised the alliance, citing its role in advancing innovation and global scholarship. “This partnership transcends borders. We’re looking to redefine how engineering is taught, researched, and experienced,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor also highlighted shared ambitions for joint research, student and staff exchanges, and co-publications that enrich both institutions.
Curtin University’s representative, Prof. David Mickler, echoed the sentiment. “Higher education must evolve through meaningful global partnerships,” he noted. “Together, we’re creating bridges to solve complex challenges and train future-ready professionals.”
The collaboration is expected to culminate in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), laying the groundwork for further joint ventures starting with engineering but later stretching into other academic fields. It will also include curriculum harmonization and immersive cultural and educational exchanges.
By combining JKUAT’s regional strengths with Curtin’s international reputation, the partnership promises enriched learning experiences, new research pathways, and broader career prospects for Kenyan students in an increasingly competitive global economy.
By Masaki Enock
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