Tharaka University continues to strengthen its global academic footprint through strategic international collaborations aimed at enhancing research, training, and knowledge exchange.
The Vice Chancellor/CEO, Prof. Peter K. Muriungi, today hosted a visiting scholar from Leiden University, Netherlands, Dr. Jenneke van der Wal, who paid a courtesy call to his office ahead of a postgraduate research seminar she is scheduled to facilitate at the University on 28th April 2026.
The Vice Chancellor was accompanied by Dr. Patrick Kanampiu, a lecturer at Tharaka University, who has maintained an active academic collaboration with Dr. van der Wal over the years.
During the meeting, the Vice Chancellor and the visiting scholar held fruitful discussions centered on expanding collaboration between Tharaka University and Leiden University. Key among the proposals was the establishment of a structured research training programme that would see experienced scholars from Leiden University visit Tharaka University to train postgraduate students and academic staff on critical aspects of research. The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen research capacity, mentorship, and scholarly output within the institution.
The two parties also reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing student research support programmes. This includes facilitating fieldwork experiences for linguistics students from Leiden University, who have consistently been hosted by Tharaka University as part of their academic training. The programme not only provides practical exposure to the students but also fosters cross-cultural academic exchange and collaboration.
This partnership builds on a strong foundation of previous engagements between the two institutions. Notably, in 2019, Leiden University, under the leadership of Dr. van der Wal, collaborated with Tharaka University and Chuka University to conduct the Linguistics in Kenya Experience (LIKE) programme. The three-week initiative brought together students from the participating universities for intensive fieldwork training hosted at Tharaka University, equipping them with hands-on research skills in linguistics.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Muriungi underscored the importance of international partnerships in advancing the University’s mission in research, innovation, and academic excellence. He noted that such collaborations provide valuable opportunities for both staff and students to engage in high-impact research and global knowledge networks.
On her part, Dr. van der Wal expressed her appreciation for the continued partnership with Tharaka University, highlighting the institution’s commitment to supporting research and providing a conducive environment for academic growth and field-based learning.
The visit marks another milestone in Tharaka University’s journey towards becoming a hub for research excellence and international academic collaboration, with a strong focus on building capacity, fostering innovation, and creating meaningful global linkages.
