Press release
Delegation from The Technical University of Kenya on a return visit to FH Potsdam
As part of a Fact Finding Mission 2024 funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam (FHP) is welcoming a delegation from The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) from 2 to 7 December 2024. The aim of the visit is to deepen bilateral relations, in particular with the Information Sciences Department, and to prepare a longer-term and contractually binding cooperation aimed at improving structures at the partner universities.
The visit marks the return visit of the Kenyan delegation, which received FHP representatives at TUK in Nairobi at the beginning of November. The talks will focus on preparing long-term cooperation and drafting a memorandum of understanding.
Kenyan delegation
The delegation from Kenya is led by high-ranking scientists and experts. These include Prof Dr Tom Kwanya, Director of the School of Information and Social Sciences, Prof Dr Naomi Mwai, Professor of Library and Information Science, Dr Carolyne Musembe, Lecturer and Expert in Records and Archives Management, and Dr Lilian Oyieke, Lecturer and Specialist in Information Science. Their expertise and perspectives will make a decisive contribution to creating the basis for future research collaborations and joint teaching projects.
"International partnerships such as these are invaluable for the further development of the Department of Information Sciences and the promotion of innovative educational and research formats," emphasised Prof. Dr Peter Heisig, Vice President for Research and Transfer at the FHP.
Programme and focal points of the visit
The comprehensive programme offers the delegation numerous insights into the German higher education system and the research and teaching structures of the FHP. President Prof. Dr. Eva Schmitt-Rodermund, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Heisig and Prof. Constanze Langer, Vice President for Digitalisation and Internationalisation, will kick off the visit with a presentation of the university's internationalisation strategy. A tour of the campus and visits to the information workshop and the digitalisation laboratory offer guests a more comprehensive impression of the university.
Another highlight is the interactive guest lectures and seminars offered by Kenyan academics for information science students. These not only contribute to the transfer of knowledge, but also to the discussion of joint teaching modules and innovative formats, such as the use of digital platforms for international exchange.
"Digitalisation and the use of modern educational formats offer enormous opportunities for shaping international partnerships in a sustainable way," explained Prof. Constanze Langer.
In addition to the activities at the FHP, the delegation will also visit important cooperation partners from the Berlin-Brandenburg region, including the Brandenburg State Archives and the Berlin State Library - Prussian Cultural Heritage.
Results and outlook
At the end of the programme, the findings and experiences from the visits to Nairobi and Potsdam will be reflected upon. The plan is to develop a roadmap for future cooperation, which will include joint research projects, teaching modules and the exchange of visiting academics.
The visit underlines the commitment of Potsdam University of Applied Sciences to promoting global cooperation and creating sustainable structures in higher education. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding is planned for 2025.
Information Sciences Department at Potsdam University of Applied Sciences
Potsdam University of Applied Sciences has established itself as one of the leading institutions in Germany thanks to its partially integrative education in the fields of information and data management, archives and library science. With a clear focus on practice-oriented learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, the Information Sciences Department offers not only Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes, but also tailor-made continuing education courses and is an important location for innovative research and teaching.
The Technical University of Kenya
The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) is one of the leading educational institutions in East Africa and offers a wide range of technical, scientific and social science degree programmes. With a particular focus on applied research and practical training, TU-K prepares students for the diverse challenges of the global labour market. As a partner in international projects, TU-K strengthens its role as a key innovative force in the region and contributes to Kenya's social and economic development.
