University of Nairobi and India to strengthen existing ties
On 21st July 2026, the University of Nairobi hosted the High Commissioner of India to Kenya Dr. Adarsh Swaika for a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening the longstanding partnership between the University and the Government of India.
Welcoming the High Commissioner, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ayub N. Gitau reaffirmed the University's commitment to expanding collaboration in higher education, research, innovation and cultural exchange. He acknowledged India's significant contribution to the University, particularly the renovation of the Mahatma Gandhi Graduate Library and continued support through the donation of books and other learning resources.
Prof. Gitau noted that the University's partnership with India continues to grow and emphasized the importance of leveraging India's advancements in technology, engineering and innovation to enhance academic and research collaborations. He also highlighted the University's existing partnerships with Indian institutions and expressed optimism for deeper engagement in areas of mutual interest.
Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Adarsh Swaika described the University of Nairobi as one of Africa's premier institutions of higher learning and reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the University. He emphasized the need to transform the strong historical ties between Kenya and India into practical opportunities for young people through education, research, innovation and cultural exchange.
Among the key areas discussed were the revival of the Chair of Indian Studies with a proposal to introduce Hindi language studies, expansion of student and faculty exchange programmes particularly in engineering, medicine and other STEM disciplines and strengthening partnerships with Indian universities and research institutions.
The meeting also explored opportunities for joint cultural initiatives including annual India–Kenya seminars, cultural and film festivals, art competitions and other student-centred activities aimed at promoting intercultural understanding. In addition, both parties discussed future collaboration in the refurbishment of the Mahatma Gandhi Wing and continued support for the University's academic infrastructure.
The courtesy visit concluded with a shared commitment to establish clear implementation mechanisms and strengthen collaboration through time-bound initiatives that will advance academic excellence, innovation and people-to-people ties between the University of Nairobi and the Government of India.
