On June 15th, 2023, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Kenya, Dr. Jafar Barmaki, visited Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) for a consultative meeting aimed at exploring avenues for collaboration and partnership between the university and Iranian institutions. The purpose of the visit was to discuss infrastructure development support, capacity building through staff and student exchange programs, linkages, scholarships for further studies and research, as well as knowledge and technological transfer.
Upon arrival, the ambassador was warmly received by the University Management, led by acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Ogodo, M.J. Nandi, and the Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Bernadette Mungai. After a tour of KAFU and a consultative meeting with the management, he addressed an audience consisting of university staff and students.
This visit builds upon the partnership talks initiated when acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Ogodo, M.J. Nandi, and Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs Prof. Julius Kipkembo visited the Iranian embassy on March 30th.
During the visit, the ambassador reiterated his willingness to forge partnerships, collaborations, and support for KAFU, and invited proposals outlining potential areas of cooperation.
Expressing his gratitude, the acting Vice Chancellor stated that H.E Dr. Barmaki's visit to KAFU "marks the recognition of our university's efforts and acknowledges the significant outcomes we intend to achieve together... It signifies the importance you place on education and your belief in our university's potential."
KAFU continuously seeks ways to increase revenue streams through grants and partnerships, enabling the provision of necessary infrastructure and resources for research and development to its students and researchers.
The Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Bernadette Mungai, emphasized the invaluable opportunity presented by the occasion to foster mutual understanding, cooperation, and collaboration. She highlighted the potential for Kaimosi Friends University and various institutions in the Islamic Republic of Iran to combine strengths and talents to achieve shared goals and promote growth. Together, they can address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, healthcare, and education.
KAFU specializes in Health Sciences and aims to benefit from Iran's reputation as a powerhouse in this field. By leveraging Iran's expertise, KAFU can enhance its curriculum and research, preparing its graduates for the global workforce. Additionally, KAFU's masterplan includes establishing a School of Engineering, and Iran's advanced knowledge in this area presents a valuable opportunity for collaboration and partnerships.
The County Government of Vihiga, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Wilberforce Kitiezo, affirmed its commitment to supporting KAFU's growth. KAFU has entered agreements with the county to support research in agribusiness and climate change.
The visit was facilitated by a committee headed by Prof. Kipkemboi, and the vote of thanks was given by Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Development, Prof. Maurice Amadalo. He expressed confidence that the seeds of collaboration and understanding sown during this visit would flourish into a fruitful partnership, benefiting both KAFU and the Islamic Republic of Iran.