The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benedict Mutua, has urged TU-K students who will be travelling to France for an exchange programme, to enhance their learning experiences and elevate TU-K’s reputation internationally.
The students who will be traveling for seven months as French Language Assistants are: Obren Lourmex, pursuing a B.com degree and Fina Couren Adhiambo studying her Diploma in International Relations. They will be accompanied by TU-K alumni Mr. Amos Nashisako and Anyangu Majimbo.
The VC said he was impressed with the growing interest in French language among students pursuing different programmes adding that the interest demonstrated the value of French as a language of international communication, education, and professional development.
He commended the efforts of the French teaching staff and the French Club in promoting multilingualism and strengthening the University's international engagement.
Prof. Mutua encouraged students to embrace French as a global language saying it enhances employability, academic mobility, diplomacy, research, and business opportunities.
The VC was addressing students at the French Language Resource Centre based at TU-K, accompanied by DVC in charge of Research and Technology Development, Prof. Isaac Orina, DVC in charge of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Maurice Amutabi and academic staff Dr. Teresa Atieno Otieno (Course Coordinator &French club Patron), Dr. Gladys Otieno, Ann Wafula, Christine Juma, Joy Shihemi, Lilian Anyietu and Lydia Arisi (Senior Librarian).
Prof. Mutua congratulated the students for their hard work, resilience and commitment in participation in French activities as well as representing the university in different forums. He told them that they have a bright future and assured them of his support.
“Consider yourselves lucky and privileged to get such opportunities, use them wisely. Remain steadfast, be grateful, creative, innovative and form networks and collaborations that will help you in the future.”
The VC emphasised the importance of teamwork, innovation, and continuous learning. He encouraged students to develop global competencies, utilise emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence responsibly, and remain open to international collaborations.
The students and alumni shared their experiences of learning French and participating in international exchange programmes. They emphasised that French had enabled them to access scholarships, study abroad opportunities, internships, industrial attachments, and professional networks, particularly in France.
They assured him that they have embraced the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies, have been participating in group discussions, debates and workshops therefore were ready to tackle the task ahead.
Dr. Atieno highlighted the success of the Language Assistant Programme explaining that it has presented an important avenue for cultural exchange, language teaching, and career development.
“TU-K students who have previously worked in France, have showcased the institution’s competence in providing competitive technological higher education programmes,”
The event also focused on strengthening the French Club through cultural activities, mentorship programmes, benchmarking with other universities, and increased student participation. Alumni encouraged current students to remain committed to learning French and to take advantage of available international opportunities.
The University’s Modern and Classical Languages, has had several MoUs designed to elevate language education and foster meaningful International partnerships. Among successful partnership is the Language Assistant Programme, initiated by the Ministry of France Education Internationale in collaboration with the Kenyan Government.
Launched in 2019, the programme aims at strengthening language education through cultural and linguistic exchange between Kenya and France, where language assistants from both countries have opportunities to teach English in France and French assistants teach French in Kenya.