Benchmarking Visit: Great Lakes University at Machakos University
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On 13th February 2026, Machakos University was honored to host a distinguished delegation from Great Lakes University for a high-level benchmarking engagement centered on academic excellence, innovation, and institutional growth.
The visit commenced with a courtesy call at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, bringing together university leadership and faculty representatives. Machakos University was represented by Prof. James Muola, Deputy Vice Chancellor (ASA), standing in for the Vice Chancellor, and Prof. Robert Arasa on behalf of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (APF). The Great Lakes University delegation included Dr. Tobias Omufwoko (HOD), Mr. Clement Manyulu (COD), and Dr. Linet Nyapada, Dean, School of Community and Public Health.
Strengthening Academic and Institutional Excellence
Deliberations focused on flagship academic programmes, accreditation progress, student population growth, expansion of learning centres into full campuses, and international partnerships. Key policy and governance highlights included:
- Clear credit transfer guidelines (49% cap for undergraduate programmes; one-third coursework threshold for postgraduate programmes)
- Strict adherence to accreditation standards supported by robust internal laboratories and qualified human resources
- Strategic MOUs with county departments, hospitals, and public health offices
- Expanded practicum placements with strengthened financial, assessment, and security support mechanisms
- Joint resource mobilization initiatives for high-cost laboratory equipment through budget consolidation and faculty grants
The engagement also explored the reintroduction of Community Based Education Services (COBES) and enhanced field-based learning to deepen student practical exposure.
Showcasing State-of-the-Art Training Facilities
The delegation toured Machakos University’s modern Public Health and Science laboratories, including fully equipped skills labs supporting training in occupational health and safety, disaster preparedness, environmental health, food science, and basic life support.
Practical demonstrations highlighted hands-on learning models, advanced equipment, waste management systems, vaccination simulations, and community engagement frameworks — all designed to produce competent, industry-ready public health professionals.
A Shared Vision for Transformative Impact
The benchmarking forum reaffirmed a shared commitment to quality assurance, innovation, regulatory excellence, and impactful collaboration in higher education. Through such strategic engagements, Machakos University continues to strengthen partnerships, enhance academic standards, and advance its mission of delivering transformative, community-centered education.