Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT) and National Institute of Transport (NIT) in Tanzania have launched a long-term training program for a period of six 6 months in Construction Material Testing and Power Suspension Systems. This program is domiciled within the Highway, Civil, and Automobile departments of both institutions as it marks a significant step in advancing technical education and regional integration in East Africa.
To provide a flexible and accessible learning experience, the program will be delivered through a hybrid model. Students will benefit from both virtual instruction and in-person training.
In the spirit of regional integration, the two institutions have an existing Cooperation Agreement that outlines the areas both institutions will be collaborating in majorly in joint Curriculum Development and Staff and Student exchange. This meets one of the EASTRIP’s developmental objective of supporting regional integration in East Africa.
The Institute’s Management, Staff, Project Implementation Unit and students applauded the initiative as a learning opportunity for both staff and students in the academia area and culturally.
Prof. Zacharia Mganilwa, former NIT Rector, pays courtesy call to Eng. M.S Nabende, former Director KIHBT & Ag Director KIHBT Eng. Henry Nyakwaka
The Project Coordinator Arch. Geoffrey Githiri, KIHBT expressed his optimism, stating “The two programs are just the pioneer of many programs the two institutions can collaborate in; I hope that short programs shall be incorporated as well along the way.”
Ag. Director KIHBT Eng. Henry Nyakwaka also highlighted the significance of this initiative, noting “I hope we onboard other programs not necessarily in the projects thematic area and have continuous exchange programs beyond the life of the project”. He also commended the staff members who have been working round the clock to ensure the success of the program.
In their commitment to long-term success, both institutions have agreed to develop a sustainable model for their collaboration. Program leaders have been tasked with identifying and refining additional programs to further enhance their joint efforts.
Dr. Prosper L. Mgaya, Rector of NIT, emphasized the importance of harmonizing qualification standards, stating, “Harmonizing our qualification standards will not only enhance graduate mobility but also foster a robust system of student mobility across the region.”
By Beatrice Njenga, Communication Officer for EASTRIP at KIHBT