MKU flags off 5th nursing apprentices to Germany

By Lawrence Ongaro

Mount Kenya University (MKU) has officially flagged off its fifth cohort of nursing apprentices in a celebratory ceremony that underscores the institution’s growing commitment to international training and employment opportunities for Kenyan youth.

The 27 apprentices are set to depart for Germany on April 1, 2026, where they will begin hands-on apprenticeship training under a programme designed to equip them with practical skills, global exposure, and access to international labour markets.

Since its launch in 2023, the Nursing Apprenticeship Programme has rapidly emerged as one of MKU’s most impactful global initiatives. With the departure of the latest cohort, the total number of beneficiaries rises to 81 students. The programme’s success is anchored on strategic partnerships with German institutions, including Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences, which supports academic development, and AG-Career Hub, led by Ms Carol Mwangi, which facilitates mentorship and smooth transition into Germany’s healthcare system. Apprentices are placed in reputable healthcare facilities across towns such as Bad Mergentheim, Göttingen, Pirmasens, and Alzey.

Expanding global training opportunities

MKU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi revealed that the university is in the process of becoming an approved TELC (The European Language Certificates) examination centre. This move will enable students to sit German proficiency exams locally, strengthening language preparation and enhancing their readiness for international placements.

MKU Vice Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi awards a certificate to one of the Cohort 5 students travelling to Germany for the Nursing Apprenticeship. Photo/Courtesy

Beyond nursing, MKU continues to broaden global career pathways through initiatives such as the Maritime Academy in Malindi. The academy has trained over 1,065 students in Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) courses, with more than 400 graduates securing employment on international cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises. German language proficiency has further enabled graduates to access job opportunities with AIDA Cruises, a key employer in the European maritime sector.

Leadership Support and Student Recognition

During the send-off, University Council Chairman Dr Vincent Gaitho reaffirmed MKU’s dedication to programmes that promote youth employment, skills development, and global collaboration. He urged the apprentices to remain disciplined, work hard, and represent both the university and Kenya with distinction.

The university administration also commended the fifth cohort for their resilience and preparation, encouraging them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and excellence as they embark on their international journey. MKU maintains its position as a leading private institution focused on innovative, industry-driven training aligned with global labour market demands.

New China ICT partnership

In a separate development, MKU recently signed a five-year partnership with Chinese institutions—Nanjing Zhongxing Xinyada Information Technology Co. Ltd and Nanjing Vocational College of Information Technology—to advance digital skills and innovation under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9).

The agreement, signed virtually on March 18, 2026, aims to drive large-scale digital transformation across Kenya and Africa.

It includes initiatives such as the establishment of a China–Africa Skills Supermarket, cloud computing platforms, staff and student exchange programmes, and joint technical training. MKU has already received ICT equipment from Xinyada to support teaching and research.

The collaboration aligns with broader development frameworks, including Kenya Vision 2030, East African Community Vision 2050, and the African Union Agenda 2063, positioning MKU as a key player in building a digitally skilled workforce for Africa’s future.