Varsity increases investment in AI training to stay with the times
In moving with the times, Mount Kenya University (MKU) is revamping its curricula to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI).
Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deogratius JAGANYI, says going forward, all new programmes will have elements of AI. The university recently launched 13 new and revised programmes, including flagship degrees in Data Science and AI. It also established a Robotics, AI and Immersive Technologies Lab and unveiled the Walker E Humanoid Robot for hands-on AI training.
Further, it upgraded the engineering labs for renewable energy and automation. Prof JAGANYI says the move to embrace AI is deliberate.
MKU is leveraging digital transformation and inclusive education to drive social change. Through its University Integrated Resource Platform (UniRP) powered by AI, MKU has streamlined academic and administrative processes, ensuring efficiency and accessibility.
Prof. JAGANYI reveals that the university integrates skills-based learning into curricula, emphasizing problem-solving, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship. Competency-based approaches, modern labs, and service-learning modules ensure graduates are industry-ready.
MKU also promotes lifelong learning through flexible programmes and global partnerships. Recognizing present-day mental health challenges in society and among students too, MKU runs a comprehensive programme offering counselling services and peer support networks, in partnership with various organisations, including UNESCO.
The university has over 400 trained counsellors and peer mentors, and regularly hosts youth forums to address anxiety, depression, and social challenges. Prof JAGANYI further says the university has invested heavily in research, with priorities directly aimed at addressing the challenges communities in Kenya and Africa face. In particular, the Vice-Chancellor’s Research and Innovation Grant, a Ksh30 million facility, annually supports research projects by staff.
Seven active research grants are ongoing, and postgraduate students are embedded through mentorship alongside the funded projects.
Undergraduate students are also supported to develop their prototypes and get IP registration if their ideas meet the minimum viable product criteria. Currently, the university is supporting two student projects (EcoBlue and WEMA Activated Charcoal Soap).
These investments continue to uplift MKU’s recognition. The university’s global ranking has improved. It is now ranked fifth in Kenya and 72nd in Africa. Its strong outputs in AI, health sciences, and environmental research have played a significant part in this .
