Danish Universities to increase Collaboration with UoN
On Thursday, March 19, 2025, a delegation from Denmark led by their Minister of Higher Education and Science, Christina Egelund and Danish Ambassador to Kenya, H.E Stephan Schønemann, visited the University of Nairobi to embark on seeking more collaboration opportunities with the University of Nairobi. Over 11 Danish rectors of universities were present in the deliberations.
Prof. Leonida Kerubo, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology represented the Vice Chancellor, the Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Brian Ouma, Deans of Faculties and Directors of Departments were present in the meeting.
Hon. Christine Egelund applauded the University of Nairobi on the already existing partnerships and collaborations with Danish universities and clearly outlined the objective of the visit. She noted, ‘We would like to continuously improve the lives of our citizens through knowledge creation and research and innovation, trade and investments between the two countries.’
On her part, Prof. Kerubo emphasized the position of the University, the long-standing partnerships and collaborations with a few Danish institutions that have made some innovations and entrepreneurship possible. She introduced the Deans of Faculties and noted that they are all open for the meeting and looking out for more collaboration opportunities.
In her remarks, she underscored the significance of this collaboration, noting that it builds a strong foundation for future partnerships between the two institutions. She expressed enthusiasm about the growth seen in joint initiatives over recent years and emphasized that formalizing this partnership will open doors to new avenues for student and faculty engagement. “DTU's leadership in innovation and its impressive record of spin-offs will serve as an inspirational model for UoN students and faculty aiming to drive impactful, sustainable solutions in Kenya and beyond,” she said.
Mr. Brian Ouma expressed his gratitude to see a representation from the DTU to have visited the University citing the desire to collaborate with the institution. He also invited the Danish to the upcoming events that revolve around the Engineering and Science Complex, ‘We have noted that there is a way that the Danish run their innovation hubs and we have desired to learn, even as the University is implementing the multi-disciplinary complex that’s will see Industry, Academia and the learners working together to solve the societal challenges.’
The Danish noted that they had done a thorough research of the academic landscape in Kenya and the University of Nairobi. They commented on the Innovation ecosystems and the research opportunities that they have identified in energy, waste management, AI, and so many others that can be implemented through Student and staff mobilities.
Different leaders from Danish Universities shared opportunities of collaboration, their innovation ecosystem, the government support and scholarship, and how policies and infrastructure can be improved to support student and staff exchange opportunities.
