Kenyan universities have signed a major international deal with the Japanese engineering firm Shimizu Corporation to boost skills development, innovation, and global collaboration.
In an event hosted by the state Department for Diaspora Affairs, represented by Ambassador Isaiya Kabira on June 10, 2026, in Nairobi, Japanese firm Shimizu Corporation, the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), and the University of Nairobi (UoN) entered into a Memorandum of Cooperation to strengthen ties between industry and academia.
The principal secretary for higher education and research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, highlighted the government’s focus on aligning higher education with industry needs and global standards.
“The collaboration represents a forward-looking approach to equipping Kenyan graduates with practical competencies and international exposure”, read part of her statement.
In attendance were Kenya’s envoy to Japan, Ambassador Moi Lemoshira, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Kenya, Mr. Hori Tomonobu; senior officials from the Shimizu Corporation; representatives from participating universities; and officials from the State Department for Diaspora Affairs.
Impact of the Memorandum of Cooperation
The Secretary for diaspora investments, Ambassador Isaiya Kabira, noted that the signing of this Memorandum of Cooperation is a major step towards strengthening collaboration between Kenyan Universities and the international players.
Kabira went ahead to state that the agreement is expected to expand job opportunities for Kenyan graduates, support technology transfer, and enhance research.
“This partnership will strengthen the link between academia and industry by creating opportunities for joint research, skills development and international exposure for Kenyan students,” read part of Kabira’s statement.
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What it means for Students
This partnership is expected to provide students from the Kenyan Universities with internship opportunities, skills exchange programs, and pathways to international employment.
It will help bridge the gap between classroom training and real-world application by exposing these students to global standards.
Japanese Firm Shimizu Corporation
Shimizu Corporation is an international corporation that provides architecture, civil engineering, and construction services.
Shimizu Corporation is the oldest construction firm in the world, with headquarters in Tokyo.
It has been active in Africa since 1968 and has participated in several infrastructure projects across 15 countries.
Shimizu Construction Company deals with:
Building Construction
Civil Engineering
Engineering and Project Management
Real Estate Development
Green Energy and Sustainability Solutions
Building Lifecycle and Facility Management
Research and Innovation
Their first office in Kenya was established in 2024 in Nairobi.
About the State Department for Diaspora Affairs
The State Department for Diaspora Affairs is a government department under the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, created in 2022 to address issues Kenyans face while working and living abroad.
It is headed by a Permanent Secretary, Roseline Njogu, who is appointed by the President.
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