KERICHO, Kenya – Kabarak University and the County Government of Kericho have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening Kabarak’s role in educating future healthcare professionals.
Signed by Governor Dr. Erick Mutai and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Kiplangat, this strategic agreement allows Kabarak’s School of Medicine, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy students to access Kericho County medical facilities for clinical training.
Designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, the cooperation offers practical experience in authentic healthcare settings.
Senior county health leaders and prominent university representatives, such as Dean of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences Prof. Pamela Kimeto and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) Prof. John Ochola, attended the signing to emphasise a common goal of creating a highly qualified, community-focused health workforce.
“Kabarak University is still regarded as a pioneer in health sciences education in the country. In addition to providing beneficial student training opportunities,” Prof. Kiplangat stressed during the ceremony.
Why the new agreement is critical to both parties
Prof. Kiplagat observed that the new agreement encourages health research and innovation by working with county health institutions.
Governor Dr. Mutai noted Kabarak University’s longstanding reputation as a reliable institution and praised its commitment to high-quality education and nation-building.
Prof. Kiplagat also restated the University’s goal of serving the country by producing professionals who are dedicated to service and possess both high academic standards and moral integrity.
“The institution keeps making investments in cutting-edge facilities, knowledgeable instructors, and business alliances to guarantee that its graduates are prepared for the workforce and capable of revolutionising healthcare systems in Kenya and elsewhere,” the VC added.
In June 2025, the county government’s top leadership held talks with Pratham International to strengthen vocational training.
Governor Dr. Mutai hosted a delegation from Pratham International, led by their Director, Rohit Shinde, for a consultative meeting at his office.
What the proposed collaboration will focus on
Buoyed by the County’s notable success in vocational training, the Pratham International team expressed a strong interest in partnering with the County Government to further strengthen the sector.
The proposed collaboration will focus on facilitating job placements for graduates of Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) across the country, capacity building for instructors, and the rollout of a digital video learning platform to expose students to modern technologies and industry-relevant skills.
Following the fruitful discussions, Governor Dr. Mutai directed the Department of Education and the County Attorney to initiate the process of drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise the partnership.
Upon formal engagement, Pratham International will join a growing league of strategic partners supporting vocational training in Kericho, including the KCB Foundation, Browns International, and other partners united by the shared goal of empowering youth through skills development and employment readiness.
Also present during the meeting were Education CECM Judith Chirchir, County Secretary Kipyegon Kirui, and Chief Officer Richard Tonui.
