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Publication Date (Issue Year)
9-2025
Language
English
Country
Kenya
Abstract
Kenya is the leading economy in East Africa. World Bank projects average GDP growth of 4.9% from 2025-27. Kenya pursues its Vision 2030 and a bottom-up economic model, which prioritizes agriculture, healthcare, affordable housing, micro and small enterprises, and the digital and creative economy. Consistent investment in human capital and higher education is paving the way for a skilled labour force that is contributing to sustainable inclusive growth, job creation and socio-economic transformation. Kenya is one of the nine African countries that is contributing to the Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (Rsif) of the Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology (PASET) since 2017. Its contribution is USD 4 million to train Kenyan PhD students in selected African host universities and collaborating with international partner institutions. Through PASET-Rsif Kenya is building strong institutions and future science leaders to drive a science and technology-led growth and development. Kenya is the former chair of PASET and hosts the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), the Rsif Regional Coordination Unit. University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University are among the 15 Rsif African Host Universities. There are 47 Rsif PhD students hosted in Kenya (15 nationalities, 36% women) and 12 Rsif research and innovation projects awarded to Kenyan institutions. 41 Kenyan nationals have been awarded Rsif scholarship (59% women) and there are 100 research publications by the Rsif students as of 30 June 2025. The report turns the spotlight on Kenyan Rsif scholars and highlights the relevance of doctoral education for driving Kenya’s knowledge economy.