16 May Unlocking Potential: The transformative impact of the Brains Staff Mobility Program.

Imagine trading the bustling streets of Nairobi for the sun-drenched shores of Tunisia. For one Strathmore University administrator, this wasn’t just a dream trip, but an enriching reality thanks to the Intra-African Staff Mobility Program under the Mobility for Research and African Integration through Health Sciences (BRAINS) project. This phenomenal program, fuelled by the European Union and guided by the African Union, is all about breaking down borders and fostering a vibrant exchange of knowledge between African universities.

Thomas Nyambura, Strathmore University’s International Students administrator, who recently embarked on this exciting adventure. Selected for a staff mobility program at the esteemed University of Tunis El Manar in Tunisia, Thomas packed his bags not just with clothes, but with a thirst for collaboration and a heart open to cultural immersion.

His three weeks stay wasn’t just about ticking off sightseeing boxes in as much as he tirelessly explored Tunisia’s historical gems. The core of the experience was a professional exchange that could only be described as a win-win. Imagine brainstorming sessions with top El Manar University’s internationalization gurus and management, swapping best practices and innovative ideas like trading cards. By the end, Thomas wasn’t just returning with a tan, but with a treasure trove of practical takeaways that will undoubtedly elevate Home University’s international student experience.

But the adventure didn’t stop at the office doors. Stepping outside the hallowed halls of professional working spaces, Thomas became a student of Tunisian culture. From wandering through ancient ruins that whisper stories of empires past to savouring the vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and Flavors that define Tunisia’s unique character, he embraced the opportunity to learn beyond textbooks.

This experience exemplifies the true essence of the Intra-African Mobility Scheme. It’s not just about professors teaching or students learning – it’s about a cross-pollination of ideas, experiences, and perspectives. It’s about African universities joining hands to create a more dynamic and interconnected educational landscape that benefits everyone involved.

Strathmore University, a champion of internationalization, is proud to be a part of this project. By participating in programs like the Intra-African Mobility project, we’re not just building bridges, we’re creating a world where students and staff can soar across the continent, enriching their minds and hearts along the way.

Maybe, the next time you see him around, don’t just ask him about reports or deadlines. Ask him about the bustling souks of Tunisia, the captivating tales whispered by ancient walls, and the groundbreaking ideas he exchanged with colleagues across the continent. After all, his journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, cultural exchange, and the transformative potential of education without borders.