Building international linkages to enhance research and education in Higher Education Institutions

Reflecting on the Meru University of Science and Technology, Kenya and University College Dublin, Ireland collaboration.

Abstract

This paper presents reflections on a collaborative multidisciplinary initiative between research and academic staff of Meru University of Science and Technology in Kenya and University College Dublin in Ireland. This initiative aimed to build multidisciplinary research and education capacities through staff development, transfer of methodologies, and innovative research approaches. We used knowledge mobilization methods, including face-to-face workshops, webinars, and staff exchanges to jointly develop staff skills, knowledge, and learning. In this paper, we discuss our motivations for developing this initiative and the process involved over a period of four years. We highlight the resources and activities that made the collaboration possible and the outcomes of the collaboration. We also reflect on key learnings and offer suggestions that might be useful for institutions seeking to engage in international linkages.