MACHAKOS UNIVERSITY STUDENTS DEPART FOR LATVIA UNDER ERASMUS+ INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY PROGRAMME

Machakos University continues to expand its international footprint through the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme, which provides students and staff with valuable opportunities for academic exchange and cross-cultural learning.

On Wednesday, 14^th January 2026, the 4^th cohort of nine students from the University, Daniel Mwololo, Michael Ombasa, Mercy Ndeto, Stanley Mwaniki, Cynthia Ngaruiya, Evan Ngundi, John Ogutu, Emmanuel Omondi, and Bradstone Mabeya (on her second semester), departed for Riga Technical University (RTU) in Riga, Latvia, through Cairo, Egypt for visa processing at the Embassy of Latvia (hosted by Jacinta Muvevi, Courtesy of the Kenyan Consulate in Egypt). The students will spend a full semester abroad, with an option for extension to a second semester.

The students were formally bid farewell by the University leadership through the Coordinator of the Programme, Prof. Stanley Makindi, and Prof. David Mulwa, the Acting Registrar (Research, innovation and Linkages). Prof. Makindi inducted the students on academic expectations at RTU, cultural norms, student life in Latvia, weather considerations, and practical guidance on adapting to life in a new country. He inspired the students to be good ambassadors of Machakos University and Kenya, and to make the most of this time in by focusing on academic excellence, cultural exchange, and personal growth, noting that international exposure plays a critical role in shaping globally competent graduates.

LATVIA UNDER ERASMUS+ INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY PROGRAMME

During the same period, the University also warmly welcomed back the 3^rd Cohort of students, Joseph Ababu, Meshack Kitum, and Aaron Kipkoech, who had successfully completed two semesters at RTU. The returning students were commended for their resilience and adaptability, and encouraged to share their experiences with fellow students to inspire greater participation in international programmes.

Machakos University remains committed to promoting internationalization through strategic partnerships such as the Erasmus+ International Mobility Programme, which continues to open transformative opportunities for her students and staff.

Below are extracts from the returning students on their experiences in the programme:

“I am deeply grateful to Machakos University for the opportunity to study at RTU. This exchange program was transformative, allowing me to build a global network, sharpen my communication skills, and gain an invaluable international perspective. Thank you, MksU, for expanding my horizons and investing in my professional growth” (Meshack Kitum).

“I am deeply grateful to the University, and by extension the Office of the DVC-RIL, for the opportunity to participate in exchange studies at Riga Technical University. The program strengthened my academic knowledge and practical skills, boosted my confidence and adaptability, and broadened my perspective and international exposure” (Joseph Ababu).

“Going to Riga Technical University was a transformative experience for me. It challenged my academic perspective while exposing me to a new culture and learning environment. Seeing education and daily life through a different lens broadened my mindset and encouraged personal growth. The experience was adventurous, inspiring, and deeply enriching, making my time at RTU both meaningful and memorable” (Aaron Kipkoech).