Karatina University has made tremendous steps towards the operationalization of the Internationalization Strategic Plan (ISP) 2024-2029. The process was recently given a boost when Dr. Marianne A. Larsen, an Academics Without Borders Volunteer and Professor Emerita, Western University embarked on a one-week on-site visit to the institution from 9th to 15th September, 2023. Dr. Larsen met and interacted with various group representatives in a bid to collect information that would enrich the Strategic Plan.
Dr. Marienne A. Larsen making her presentation
Coordinated by the Directorate of Resource Mobilization and International Programmes, Dr. Larsen held meetings with the Acting Deputy Vice in charge of Academic, Research and Student Affairs, the Registrar (Academic Affairs), select members of Senate, the Internationalization Strategic Plan Committee and members of staff from the Security, ICT and Catering sections.
Meeting with the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (ARSA), Prof. Hellen Kamiri (Left), Director, Resource Mobilization and International Programmes, Prof. Kellen Kiambati (in pink suit) and Dr. Anne Kariuki.
Dr. Larsen noted that according to (de Wit et al, 2015), internationalization of higher education is the intentional process of integrating an international, intercultural or global dimension into the purpose, functions and delivery of post-secondary education, in order to enhance the quality of education and research for all students and staff, and to make a meaningful contribution to society. The need for internationalization has also been necessitated by the “Rapid changes taking place in international higher education, which only have increased in range and complexity over the past decade. Key changes in higher education globally are its massification, economic pressures, the global knowledge economy, and the emphasis on reputation and rankings.” (de Wit, 2019).
Consultative meeting with select members of Senate
Karatina University recognizes that engaging with the international is indispensable to its vision of becoming “a University of global excellence, meeting the dynamic needs and development of society.” As such, the strategic priorities for internationalization are to enhance Global Learning for All, International Mobility Experiences and International Partnerships and Collaboration. The aim is that, through internationalization, students, staff and faculty at Karatina University will develop the competencies, skills and outlook to live, work and thrive in a globalized world. The Internationalization Strategic Plan (ISP) builds upon the University’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values from the overall University’s Strategic Plan (2021-2025) as well as the Philosophy and aims for Karatina University as outlined in its founding Charter (2013).
After the review, the ISP is expected to be completed by the end October, 2023 in readiness for subsequent roll-out for implementation.