Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, along with Prof. Richard Mulwa and Prof. Nzula Kitaka, welcomed delegates from the French Embassy and Sorbonne University, led by Prof. Wilkister Moturi. Discussions focused on advancing the Memorandum of Understanding between Egerton and Sorbonne, with Prof. Kibwage proposing French language courses to boost graduate employability. The delegation included Alexandre Regina, Stephanie Zimny, Natalia Hristic, Johann Schnyder, Martin Pickford, and Loic Segalen.(Photo: Kurian Musa/ Egerton University)
Egerton University’s Main Campus in Njoro today welcomed a delegation of researchers from Sorbonne University, France, along with an official from the French Embassy in Kenya Mr Alexandre Regina, to discuss the progress and future of their ongoing partnership. Hosted by Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, the visit highlighted the accomplishments achieved since the collaboration began in 2019, and new opportunities for joint research projects and academic exchanges.
Prof. Kibwage warmly welcomed the delegation, noting that the robust collaboration between Egerton and Sorbonne University has been a gateway to impactful research. “I am aware of the robust ongoing collaboration between our institutions, and there are opportunities for even more impactful research,” he said.
The visiting team from Sorbonne University included Stephanie Zimny, Natalia Hristic, Johann Schnyder, Martin Pickford and Loic Segalen, each bringing expertise to advance joint research initiatives with Egerton’s Faculty of Environment and Resources Development.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage presents a handcrafted soapstone carving to Mr Alexandre Regina an official from the French Embassy, symbolizing appreciation and the strengthening partnership between the institutions. (Photo: Kurian Musa/ Egerton University)
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), established between the two institutions in 2019 and concluding in 2024, has already fostered student and faculty exchanges and launched two major research projects funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union and the Pamoja Grants Project. According to Prof. Wilkister Moturi, Dean of the Faculty of Environment and Resources Development, the initiatives are progressing well, having met all objectives to date. “We are in discussions to escalate and apply for additional funds through the Pamoja Grants and to renew the MoU, which is coming to a close,” she shared.
Mr Regina, the French Embassy official, emphasized France’s commitment to supporting research in Kenyan universities by facilitating partnerships and funding opportunities. Prof. Kibwage pointed out, however, that Kenyan scholars sometimes hesitate to pursue opportunities in France due to language barriers. He proposed that the French Embassy consider supporting French language learning at Egerton, a suggestion that received support from Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization. Such an initiative could empower Kenyan students and researchers to access more opportunities within French-speaking academic communities.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage presents a symbolic soapstone carving to the team leader Johann Schnyder from Sorbonne University, honouring the collaboration and shared commitment to academic excellence. (Photo: Kurian Musa/ Egerton University)
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance & Planning) Prof. Richard Mulwa expressed gratitude for the continued collaboration, extending an invitation for more partnership opportunities. “We are ready to support these initiatives and look forward to exploring many more areas of collaboration with Sorbonne University. You are always welcome at Egerton University,” he affirmed. Prof. Mulwa’s remarks reinforced the university’s commitment to expanding its international partnerships and providing resources for joint projects.
The visit also opened discussions on new areas of research, particularly environmental degradation, a pressing global concern. “Let’s look at opportunities to initiate new collaborations and projects that can benefit our communities and the world at large,” Prof. Kibwage encouraged.
Alexandre Regina from the French Embassy addresses Egerton University students, outlining scholarship opportunities, study programs, and application processes for pursuing higher education in France, along with an overview of popular courses and fields available to international students. (Photo: Kurian Musa/ Egerton University)
As the Sorbonne researchers continue their visit at the Faculty of Environment and Resources Development until November 3, both institutions anticipate an even stronger bond, driven by their commitment to academic excellence and shared goals. This visit highlights Egerton University’s growing international influence and dedication to meaningful research collaborations that address real-world challenges.
