Digiblog

Strengthening educational collaborations between Estonia and Kenya

Between April 21st and 27th, a delegation organized by the Estonian Centre for International Development (EstDev) visited Nairobi, Kenya, with the goal of strengthening educational collaborations between Estonia and Kenya.

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The delegation also included representatives from Tallinn University: Developer of International Educational Services Matti Rossi from the School of Educational Sciences, an Educational Technology Software Analyst Priit Tammets and Head of In-service Training Kersti Maidra from the School of Digital Technologies. The main mission of the delegation was to support the implementation of Kenya's new Competency-Based Curriculum and to foster closer relationships with Kenyan universities.

The delegation's visit kicked off with participation in the Connected Africa Summit 2024 at Uhuru Gardens. The summit featured an inspiring speech by Kenyan President William Ruto and highlighted collaborations like Team Europe. This event provided a platform for engaging with key stakeholders in Africa's digital transformation. On the next day the Estonian delegation visited Riara University, where they were warmly received by Professor Robert Gateru. The visit focused on exploring potential collaborations and exchanging knowledge to enhance educational practices.

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The next day began with a knowledge-sharing visit to Strathmore University as part of the Digital Explorers II mission, where Priit Tammets represented Tallinn University in panel discussions focused on talent partnerships. Later that evening, the delegation attended a networking event at Serena Hotel, organized by Enterprise Estonia (EAS). This gathering facilitated connections between Estonian ICT companies, such as Triumf Health, StarCloud OÜ, ADM Interactive, Nortal, AdoptoMedia, Wisercat, and Digiotouch, and their Kenyan counterparts, creating opportunities for potential collaborations in the tech sector.

Later there were also visits to the Education Deans Forum at Embu University, where Kenya unveiled a roadmap for transforming teacher education. At the University of Nairobi's Main Campus, Matti Rossi represented Tallinn University with a presentation that highlighted collaborative efforts and shared insights. The delegation also visited The Technical University of Kenya, engaging in deep discussions led by Professor Alfred Orina Isaac.

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This productive and insightful visit not only strengthened educational ties between Estonia and Kenya but also laid a solid foundation for future partnerships, promising significant advancements in the educational systems of both countries. The visit concluded on April 26th with a trip to Strathmore University, where the team met with Mr. Paul Pochieng, the Dean of Students, to explore further opportunities for collaboration and exchange.