Mount Kenya University (MKU) has flagged off its 5th cohort of nursing apprentices to begin their apprenticeship training under the university’s international placement programme.

The 5th cohort, comprising 27 apprentices, will depart for Germany to begin their apprenticeship training on April 1, 2026. 

The programme is part of MKU’s ongoing internationalization strategy aimed at equipping students with practical skills, global exposure and giving them access to international job markets.

Since its inception in 2023, the Nursing Apprenticeship Programme has grown into one of MKU’s most impactful international initiatives. 

This week’s send-off brings the total number of students who have benefited from the Germany apprenticeship initiative to 81.  

While addressing the apprentices, MKU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said the institution is also in the process of becoming an approved TELC (The European Language Certificates) examination centre, a move that will allow students to undertake German proficiency exams locally and enhance MKU’s language training ecosystem.

In addition to the Nursing Apprenticeship programme, MKU continues to diversify global job pathways for learners. 

The MKU Maritime Academy in Malindi has trained 1,065 students in Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)-related courses. 

Chairman of the University Council, Dr Vincent Gaitho reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting programmes that promote youth employment, skills development and international collaboration. 

He encouraged the apprentices to remain disciplined, work hard, and serve as ambassadors of MKU and their country.