The United States announces New Partnership with Kenya to Support STEM Education

The University of Embu Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, on Tuesday, 21^st May 2024 was among the dignitaries in the high-powered delegation that witnessed the signing of a bilateral framework for cooperation between the United States of America and the Government of Kenya to support digital transformation in Kenyan universities and other tertiary institutions. The move is aimed at driving innovation, research, and create job opportunities in STEM-related fields in the Country. Prof. Mugendi is also the Chairman of the Kenya Public Universities, Vice-Chancellor’s Committee.

The partnership is set to contribute greatly to Kenya’s economic development by preparing a generation of innovative youth equipped with the necessary skills to meet evolving market demands in the digital era. The signing took place at Spelman College in Atlanta, where representatives of the U.S. and Kenyan governments had gathered to discuss investments in higher education, and partnerships in STEM education. At the signing, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a $32 million (equivalent to Kshs. 4.2 Billion) investment in Kenya’s education system. During the event, the U.S. Department of State also announced the “Kennedy-Mboya Partnerships,” a new scholarship program worth $3.3 million (equivalent to Kshs. 437 million) that will support the next generation of Kenyan scientists, researchers, and engineers.

The signing event is part of the H.E. President William Ruto’s itinerary during his ongoing state visit to the United States of America. USAID Counselor, Clinton White signed the Enhancing of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education for Economic Development Framework for Cooperation alongside the Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi.