Kenya’s education sector is set to receive a significant boost with a $32 million (Sh4.2 billion) investment from the US, aimed at fostering innovation, research, and job growth in STEM fields. This funding supports new partnerships between Kenyan universities and industry, announced during President William Ruto’s visit to the US.
The strategic partnership signing event in Atlanta marks a milestone in US-Kenya relations, focusing on establishing linkages, exchange programs, and collaborations to enhance STEM, advanced manufacturing, and ICT capacities in Kenyan higher education institutions.
Part of the investment includes $850,000 (Sh111.5 million) for the Edtech Africa initiative, promoting STEM partnerships between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Open University of Kenya, Mastercard, and Microsoft.
Additionally, a new $6.5 million (Sh852.4 million) project aims to connect STEM graduates with jobs in high-growth sectors such as ICT, textiles, and pharmaceuticals manufacturing, boosting employment opportunities in Kenya.
The US is also investing $24.5 million (Sh3.2 billion) in a programme focused on early grade literacy, ensuring more Kenyans are prepared with foundational skills for higher education and future careers.
President Ruto expressed confidence in the initiative, highlighting its potential to support global security and economic prosperity through the development of ICT, green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable construction practices.
