Students from Mt Kenya University, particularly those studying nursing, have received exciting opportunities to participate in apprenticeship programs in Germany and Austria. This initiative is supported by the German government's development agency, DAAD, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience in German hospitals.
Language Skills and Employment Opportunities
As part of the program, students will learn the German language, which is essential for their success in these countries. This initiative comes at a time when the Kenyan government is working on bilateral agreements with various countries to create job opportunities for skilled professionals abroad.
However, many Kenyans have missed out on such opportunities in the past due to language barriers and uncertainties about working conditions. In 2021, for example, a group of Kenyan nurses who were offered jobs in the UK were disqualified after failing language tests, with only 10 out of 300 passing.
A Personal Story from Prof. Simon Gicharu
Adding a personal touch to this initiative, Mt Kenya University’s founder, Prof. Simon Gicharu, shared a humorous experience from his own time in Germany. While trying to capture a moment during a trip, he asked a passerby on a bike to take a photo with his camera. The passerby misunderstood and took the camera as a gift, leaving Prof. Gicharu in a tricky situation due to his limited German language skills.
This incident highlights the importance of language and cultural understanding, reinforcing the need for students to be well-equipped to communicate effectively in foreign environments.
Conclusion
With this apprenticeship program, Mt Kenya University aims to enhance the skills of its students and prepare them for successful careers abroad. The initiative not only addresses the current gaps in language proficiency but also underscores the transformative power of education in bridging cultures and creating opportunities
