18th March, 2026 marked a significant milestone in strengthening partnerships between academia and healthcare, as Mount Kenya University and the Heart-to-Heart Foundation officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaboration in health, research, and community development.
The agreement was formalized by Dr. Dan Gikonyo, Founder of Heart-to-Heart Foundation and a representative of The Karen Hospital, alongside the MKU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius JAGANYI. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Karimi Randall, Executive Director of Heart-to-Heart Foundation, and Prof. Wanderi, Principal – Corporate Services at MKU.
Strengthening Collaboration for Impact
The MoU outlines several strategic areas of collaboration designed to leverage the strengths of both institutions in advancing healthcare outcomes, academic excellence and community well-being.
- Joint Research and Development
Both institutions will collaborate on health-related research projects, combining academic expertise and clinical experience to generate innovative solutions to pressing health challenges. This partnership is expected to enhance evidence-based practices and contribute to policy development in the healthcare sector. - Community Outreach Programmes
A key focus of the partnership is community engagement through initiatives such as the Heart-to-Heart Run, joint medical camps, and other outreach programmes. These activities aim to improve access to healthcare services, promote preventive health practices and strengthen community awareness. - Public Lectures and Knowledge Sharing
The collaboration will facilitate public lectures and forums addressing global and local issues, with a particular emphasis on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These engagements will provide a platform for knowledge exchange among students, professionals and the wider community. - Co-hosting of Events
MKU and the Heart-to-Heart Foundation will jointly organize conferences, workshops, and summits. These events will create opportunities for networking, professional development and dissemination of research findings. - Consortium Development and Grant Opportunities
The partnership will support the establishment of a joint consortium to develop proposals and pursue grant funding. This initiative is expected to expand research capacity and attract resources for impactful projects. - Internships and Student Development
To strengthen practical training and boost employability, the MoU prioritizes internship and attachment opportunities for students in key disciplines within the College of Health Sciences and Library Science. This will bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
Mount Kenya University continues to expand its footprint in research, innovation, and community engagement. This collaboration underscores the University’s strong commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery, advancing impactful research, and empowering communities. The partnership with the Heart-to-Heart Foundation is strategically positioned to deliver meaningful, sustainable impact both locally and beyond.
