Inter-University Council for East Africa

A recent visit by a delegation from GIZ Tanzania and EAC to the IUCEA Headquarters marked a significant opportunity for dialogue with IUCEA Executive Secretary, Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona and EASTECO Deputy Executive Secretary, Muyambi Fortunate. The meeting concentrated on pivotal initiatives designed to elevate the quality of education across the region. Central to the discussions were the enhancement of select educational programs and the alignment of teaching methodologies to ensure that students are well-equipped for the demands of the workforce. Additionally, the conversation addressed vital strategies to promote regional mobility for both students and professionals, thereby cultivating avenues for fruitful cross-border collaboration. A noteworthy aspect of the dialogue was the commitment to advancing public-private partnerships in the realm of artificial intelligence research. The formulation of robust policy recommendations to underpin these initiatives was also emphasized. Such collaborative efforts not only represent a critical stride towards fortifying education in the region but also underscore our shared commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development.

Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, Executive Secretary of the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), and Prof. Melance Ntunzwebimana, Coordinator of the Regional Centre of Excellence - East African Nutritional Sciences Institute (RCoE-EANSI), have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement marks a significant step forward in fostering collaboration between IUCEA and RCoE-EANSI, focusing on the advancement of research, enhancement of quality in postgraduate studies, and the facilitation of staff and student exchange programs. The Memorandum of Understanding solidifies a collaborative partnership that will span five years, aimed at aligning the complementary goals and responsibilities of both institutions. To achieve the aspirations outlined in the MoU agreement, several specific initiatives have been identified. These initiatives will include but are not limited to, concerted efforts to facilitate and endorse the accreditation of EANSI’s programs across the East African Community (EAC) partner states, as well as the development of impactful short-term training modules. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to elevating educational standards and fostering academic excellence within the EAC region.

Ben RUHINDA , Senior Systems Officer at the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), discussed important aspects of data management and research in the digital age during a stakeholders' forum in Nairobi on October 14, 2024. #StakeholdersForum2024

Two scholars from the East African Community Scholarship Programme (EACSP) have recently celebrated their academic achievements by graduating with master's degrees in their respective fields. Walter Cheruiyot Koech from Kenya completed his Master of Science in Irrigation Engineering and Management at Sokoine University of Agriculture. His graduation took place on Thursday, October 17, 2024. As a member of Cohort 2 of the EAC Scholars Program, Walter focused his studies on sustainable irrigation practices, which are crucial for addressing food security and improving agricultural efficiency in the region. His expertise will significantly contribute to enhancing agricultural productivity in East Africa, especially in the face of climate change. Andrew Ajang Othow Deing from South Sudan graduated with a Master of Science in Medical Lab Science from Mbarara University of Science and Technology on Saturday, October 19, 2024. As part of Cohort 3, Andrew's training has equipped him with vital skills in laboratory management and medical diagnostic techniques, both essential for advancing healthcare in his country. His work aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of medical services, addressing public health challenges in South Sudan. Both graduates are beneficiaries of the East African Community Scholarship Program (EACSP), which the Federal Republic of Germany generously funds through KfW. This program aims to empower young scholars in the region by providing them with advanced education and training opportunities, thereby fostering regional development and collaboration. These accomplishments represent significant milestones for both Walter and Andrew, symbolizing hope and progress for the future of East Africa. Their educational journeys reflect a commitment to enhancing skills and expertise that address the pressing challenges faced by their nations and communities. #EACSCHOLARSHIP

Dr. Salome Guchu, head of the Research and Innovation Unit at the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), discussed the significance of data management and its importance to institutions within the East African Community during a stakeholders meeting held in Nairobi from October 14 to 16, 2024. #StakeholdersEngagement2024

Some of the highlights of the recent stakeholders’s engagement held in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 14 to 16, 2024. Ben RUHINDA, Salome Guchu ,Prof Idris A. Rai #StakeholdersEngagement2024

Dorine Rwehera, the EAC Scholarship Programme Officer at IUCEA, delivered a presentation that provided a comprehensive overview of the East African Community (EAC) Scholarship initiative. Her discussion began with a detailed explanation of the project design, highlighting the project's objectives, including its overarching Project Development Objectives (PDO) and specific goals aligned with regional educational needs. She outlined the various components of the scholarship programme, which has been structured to support students across the East African region in accessing quality higher education. Dorine elaborated on the scholarship package, detailing the financial support provided, which encompasses tuition fees, living stipends, and additional funding for educational materials and travel expenses. The presentation also covered the timeline of the programme, emphasizing the duration of funding available to recipients, which varies depending on the level of study and chosen institutions. Dorine shared progress reports indicating how the programme has expanded over the years, supported by data on enrollment figures and graduation rates. She also highlighted stakeholders’ perceptions regarding the project’s impact, showcasing testimonials from both students and educational institutions about the positive changes brought about by the EAC Scholarship initiative. Challenges faced by the programme were openly discussed, including issues related to funding sustainability and administrative hurdles. Dorine pointed out the lessons learned through these challenges, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders. Finally, she concluded with success stories that illustrated the transformative effect of the EAC Scholarship on individual lives and communities, stressing the importance of ongoing improvements to bolster the program’s effectiveness and reach. Overall, her presentation painted a hopeful picture of educational opportunities across the EAC, with a commitment to enhancing future prospects for students in the region. #EACSUMMERSCHOOL2024

Dr. Gervias Ndayizeye, Senior Exchange and Programmes Officer at Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) delivered a presentation on IUCEA Staff and Student Mobility at the Summer School for Cohort 2, currently taking place at USIU-Africa. He emphasized the importance of establishing sustainable regional student mobility and scholarship programs, outlining the IUCEA's role in enhancing higher education in East Africa. Dr. Gervias encouraged member universities to offer at least one slot for students from EAC partner states, applicable at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Additionally, he highlighted the EAC Scholarship Mobility Scheme and the benefits that IUCEA provides to member universities across the EAC partner states. #EACSUMMERSCHOOL2024

At the ongoing Summer School for Cohort 3 of the East African Community (EAC) scholarship programme at the United States International University-Africa (USIU), Prof. Mike Kuria, CEO of the Commission for University Education in Kenya, delivered an insightful presentation on navigating employment in a multi-cultural environment. Prof. Kuria emphasized the importance of understanding cultural dynamics and regional integration, particularly in a diverse workforce. He highlighted that in today's globalized job market, the ability to adapt and thrive in various cultural settings is crucial for personal and professional growth. His discussion underscored the significance of cultural awareness in enhancing collaboration and fostering effective communication among colleagues from different backgrounds. To illustrate these points, he shared a compelling case study based on the book "Culture is Rutan," authored by South Sudanese scholar Prof. Taban Lo Liyong. This case study served to deepen understanding of the concepts of culture, multi-culture, and corporate culture. Prof. Kuria described how these elements influence workplace interactions and organizational effectiveness. He noted that the recognition of varying cultural norms and practices is essential for building a cohesive work environment. Additionally, Prof. Kuria offered practical cultural tips specifically designed for young East African scholars. He encouraged them to embrace diversity, remain open-minded, and engage in continuous learning about different cultures. He also advised them to seek mentorship and networking opportunities that can enhance their cultural competence. The session not only provided valuable insights for students navigating their careers in a multicultural setting but also reinforced the need for empathy, respect, and adaptability in today's interconnected world. #EACSUMMERSCHOOL2024

Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona, the Executive Secretary of IUCEA, expressed gratitude to the Federal Republic of Germany for its ongoing support in funding the EAC Scholarship programme. Their unwavering commitment to higher education in East Africa has enabled hundreds of students in the region to pursue their academic dreams. He also thanked the EAC Secretariat for entrusting IUCEA with the implementation of this vital initiative. Prof. Banyankimbona further noted that since its inception in 2018, the EAC Scholarship Programme has provided opportunities for 180 scholars to pursue master’s degrees in various fields across the region. This program has been instrumental in advancing the objectives of the EAC Common Higher Education Area, a framework established by the EAC Heads of State in 2017 to harmonize curricula, qualifications, and certification across the region. The mobility of students facilitated through this scholarship, is essential for achieving the free movement of labor, a key aspect of the EAC Common Market Protocol, according to Prof. Banyankimbona. He also highlighted that IUCEA has been actively promoting student mobility in the region through other initiatives, including the EAC Student Mobility Scheme (EAC-SMS). This robust initiative is designed to encourage the free movement of students and academic staff within the East African Community (EAC) and plays a crucial role in advancing broader regional integration goals. It is fully owned and driven by the EAC Partner States, IUCEA's member universities, and the East African community, which includes parents and guardians, stated Prof. Banyankimbona while addressing students and representatives from the EAC Partner States at United States International University Africa (USIU). However, he acknowledged the challenges faced during the implementation of Phase I of the EAC Scholarship. These challenges include difficulties related to cross-border payment of admission fees due to differing payment systems across the region. Additionally, some students continue to encounter visa charges, and the complex administrative processes for the equivalence assessment of academic credentials have created obstacles that undermine the program's goal of supporting deserving students. #EACSUMMERSCHOOL2024