During the 2nd Triennial RUFORUM Conference, the Academic Registrars Dialogue on Transformative Education emerged as a pivotal event, with Egerton University’s Academic Affairs Registrar, Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, leading a compelling discussion on breaking barriers in higher education. Prof. Saidi shared the experiences of Egerton University in overcoming challenges faced by African higher education institutions, such as inadequate financial support, maintaining quality amidst rapid expansion, and misalignment between academic programs and market demands.
Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi participating in a panel discussion during the Academic Registrars Dialogue at the 2nd RUFORUM Triennial Conference on 13th August 2024 in Namibia. She shared how Egerton University is overcoming challenges in higher education through innovation, partnerships, and a focus on market-relevant education.
Prof. Saidi highlighted Egerton University’s significant strides in transforming education through a multi-faceted approach. The University has made substantial contributions to higher education training in Kenya and beyond, engaging in over 90 collaborative research and capacity-building projects with partners like Mastercard Foundation, World Bank, and Erasmus-European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). The TAGDev initiative has been particularly impactful, enhancing the University’s ability to deliver transformative education through experiential learning, community engagement, and entrepreneurship.
Egerton has diversified its revenue streams by establishing the Directorate of Income Generating Unit (IGU) and aligned its education with market needs through regular curriculum reviews based on industry demands and alumni feedback. The University has also embraced technology and made significant infrastructural improvements, including campus-wide Wi-Fi, modern laboratories, and the establishment of Centers of Excellence, a university farm, an Agro-science park, and a business incubation hub.
Moreover, the University has fostered partnerships with the private sector, both locally and internationally, to enrich curriculum delivery, provide internships, and facilitate field attachments. Prof. Saidi emphasized the importance of supporting research, innovations, and entrepreneurship for community transformation and sustainable development. The University's commitment to gender mainstreaming, staff capacity building, effective governance, and sound policies has further strengthened its role as a leader in transformative education in Africa.
By.Agnes Mwangi
