Mount Kenya University (MKU) has signed a five-year strategic partnership with two leading Chinese technology institutions aimed at advancing innovation, digital skills, and infrastructure development across Africa.
The agreement, signed virtually, brings together MKU, Nanjing ZhongxingXinyada Information Technology Co. Ltd (Xinyada), and Nanjing Vocational College of Information Technology (NJCIT). The collaboration is expected to accelerate large-scale digital transformation and skills development in Kenya and the wider region.
According to MKU Vice Chancellor Deogratius Jaganyi, the partnership aligns with the university’s mission to promote world-class education, research, and innovation for sustainable development. He noted that MKU has already received its first batch of ICT equipment from Xinyada to support teaching and research initiatives.
The partnership will focus on several flagship programmes, including the establishment of a China-Africa Skills Supermarket, deployment of cloud computing platforms, staff and student exchange programmes, and joint skills-based training. It will also enhance digital cooperation through initiatives such as institutional website backlinking, all aimed at strengthening innovation ecosystems.
The collaboration reinforces MKU’s role as the United Nations Academic Impact Hub Chair for Sustainable Development Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), positioning the institution as a key driver of technological advancement.
Xinyada, a recognized high-tech enterprise, specializes in digital product development, platform building, and global ICT training.
NJCIT is among China’s top state-owned ICT institutions, offering programmes in artificial intelligence, network and communication, intelligent manufacturing, and digital business, with existing collaborations in countries such as South Africa and Ethiopia.
The initiative is also expected to support broader development frameworks, including Kenya Vision 2030, the East African Community Vision 2050, and the African Union Agenda 2063, by building a highly skilled workforce capable of driving industrial growth and technological innovation across the continent.
