Machakos University Explores Strategic Partnership with National University of Science and Technology

Machakos University has taken another significant step towards strengthening international partnerships following high-level engagement with the National University of Science and Technology MISIS (NUST), aimed at fostering collaboration in industrial education, research, innovation and capacity building.

Speaking during the engagement, Machakos University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce J. Agalo, noted that NUST’s close integration with industry resonates strongly with Machakos University’s vision of producing graduates who solve real societal challenges through innovation and practical knowledge.

“We are inspired by NUST’s industry-oriented model because it aligns with our commitment to developing solutions that address society’s needs through teaching, research and innovation,” she said.

The discussions explored opportunities for collaboration in ICT, communication, linguistics, business, engineering and other thematic areas. Both institutions acknowledged that stronger partnerships between universities and industry reduce the cost of retraining graduates by ensuring academic programmes remain aligned with labour market demands.

NUST shared its experience in building successful collaborations across Africa, including partnerships with institutions in Kenya. The university proposed staff and student exchange programmes, beginning with Master’s level training, where participants would gain industrial experience before returning to disseminate knowledge and strengthen capacity at their home institution.

Among the areas identified for future collaboration are engineering, agriculture, renewable energy, business courses and solar technologies. The institutions also discussed adopting a problem-based approach to curriculum development, where academic programmes are designed around real societal and industrial challenges.

To operationalize the partnership, both universities proposed identifying priority areas for collaboration, linking academic departments, engaging industry partners and developing joint programmes that integrate industrial attachment, research and innovation.

The Vice Chancellor further emphasized the need to broaden the scope of collaboration beyond student exchange to include joint research, curriculum development, institutional capacity building and community impact initiatives.

The proposed partnership underscores Machakos University’s commitment to internationalization and its strategic focus on building industry-responsive education that equips graduates with the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to drive sustainable development.