Kaimosi Friends University today 27/01/2026 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Vignan’s Foundation of Science, Technology and Research (VFSTR), India, in a move aimed at strengthening international collaboration in research, teaching and innovation. The agreement, also signed by Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic, was witnessed by Vihiga County Governor H.E. Dr. Wilber Ottichilo during a ceremony held at the University.

Vihiga County Governor H.E. Dr. Wilber Ottichilo signs the Kaimosi Friends University visitors’ book during the MoU signing ceremony with Vignan’s Foundation of Science, Technology and Research.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Ottichilo emphasized the importance of research in driving development and shaping public policy through evidence-based decision-making. He underscored the central role of science, technology and research in knowledge creation, noting that universities remain critical institutions in national and regional development.

“Research generates data that can be analysed to inform rational decision-making, Universities are credible centres of knowledge where research is mandatory” said Dr. Ottichilo.

KAFU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita, described the signing of the MoU as a significant milestone in the University’s growth and internationalisation agenda.

“Today’s MoU marks more than a formal aspiration; it signifies a shared vision and a commitment to purposeful partnership. Through this collaboration, our staff and students will benefit from exchange programmes in teaching and research, access advanced technologies, and utilise shared facilities to advance knowledge,” he said.

Prof. Mwita added that the collaboration will help address gaps in specialised teaching areas, particularly in medical and applied sciences, through visiting faculty and joint supervision.

“As a young and rapidly growing university, we recognise that strategic international collaborations are essential in enhancing our academic offerings, strengthening our research output and preparing our students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world,” he said.

Kaimosi Friends University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter N. Mwita signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Vignan’s Foundation of Science, Technology and Research as Vihiga County Governor H.E. Dr. Wilber Ottichilo, Council Chairman Prof. Stanley Ominde Khainga, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration, Finance, Planning & Development) look on.

From a governance perspective, Chairman of Council Prof. Stanley Khainga said the MoU aligns with the University’s long-term strategic direction and governance mandate.

“We view this MoU not merely as a ceremonial document, but as a strategic instrument that aligns squarely with our mandate under the Universities Act, the national higher education policy framework and our institutional charter,” said Prof. Khainga.

He assured stakeholders that the University Council will provide oversight to ensure the partnership delivers measurable outcomes and long-term value.

“The Council will expect periodic reports, clear performance indicators and demonstrable impact arising from this collaboration,” he said.

Vignan University Chief Executive Officer Mr. Srikant Nandigam welcomed the partnership, saying it reflects a shared commitment to academic excellence, research innovation and global engagement.

Officials from Kaimosi Friends University and Vignan’s Foundation of Science, Technology and Research exchange signed Memoranda of Understanding during a ceremony witnessed by Vihiga County Governor H.E. Dr. Wilber Ottichilo and University leadership.

“This collaboration is founded on trust, mutual respect and a shared desire to deliver tangible outcomes that benefit students, faculty and society in both Kenya and India,” said Mr. Nandigam.

Leaders from Kaimosi Friends University, Vignan’s Foundation of Science, Technology and Research, and Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic pose for a group photo after the signing of a MoU, witnessed by Vihiga County Governor H.E. Dr. Wilber Ottichilo.