At Mount Kenya University (MKU), an exciting chapter is unfolding as 65 students embark on a transformative journey through the “Africa Meets Bavaria” project, a two-year initiative funded by the Bavarian State Chancellery. This program coordinated by the University’s Innovation and incubation Centre is a bridge connecting African ingenuity with Bavarian innovation, fostering entrepreneurial collaboration that transcends borders.
For these students, the journey begins with a two-week introductory course, laying the foundation for understanding digital product development. The program quickly transitions into an intensive three-month hands-on training, where participants learn to design and implement real-world digital solutions while developing entrepreneurial skills. This stage empowers them to transform ideas into actionable business concepts.
The second phase elevates the experience, offering selected students a two-month internship with Bavarian start-ups. This opportunity immerses them in practical environments where innovation thrives, giving them firsthand exposure to entrepreneurship, business strategies, and the German approach to technology and business development.
The program’s capstone is a learning visit, designed to create lasting networks and foster collaboration between the African and Bavarian innovation ecosystems. This stage not only builds professional connections but also encourages the exchange of ideas, enhancing the students’ global perspectives.
Already, over 40 MKU students have completed the introductory training, earning certificates from the Technical University of Munich, a world-renowned institution. For many, this certification is a stepping stone to further opportunities within the program and beyond.
“From the generative AI using AWS Course, I was able to create an Application inspired by the project we developed during the MKU AI for Education Hackathon, commented Mark Kiarie, one of the Beneficiaries. “This achievement was made possible with the valuable knowledge I gained from Zero to Hero- Digital Product Development Course.
According to Ms. Margaret Mwinji one of the program mentors, the program has been a life-changing experience for the students by opening their eyes to the potential of technology and entrepreneurship in solving local and global challenges.
