University of Nairobi Students Join Global Classroom via VOICE Project

NAIROBI, Feb. 5, 2025 – The University of Nairobi (UoN) has launched the Virtual Online International Collaborative Education (VOICE) project, connecting students with peers at Leiden University and HAN University in the Netherlands. The program, themed “Crossing Borders Without Crossing Borders,” offers a semester-long virtual exchange for 25 students from UoN’s Faculties of Education and Arts and Social Sciences.  

Speaking at the virtual launch, UoN’s Director of Corporate Affairs and Head of Internationalization, Mr. John Orindi, emphasized the program’s potential to broaden students’ perspectives and equip them with skills to address global challenges. He lauded the use of technology to facilitate international collaboration without requiring physical travel, highlighting UoN’s commitment to maximizing educational opportunities.  

HAN University’s Prof. Jannemieke Geessink noted the program’s benefits for developing communication skills in a multicultural environment. UoN representatives, including Prof. Jennifer Muchiri, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and Prof. Anne Aseey, program coordinator, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and its potential to strengthen existing collaborations. Dr. Ingrid Bartel, program coordinator from HAN, pledged full support for UoN students, while Dr. M.D. Ditmars from Leiden University advocated for increased industry partnerships in research.  

The VOICE program will involve joint projects, discussions, and collaborative research, fostering a global network for participating students. The initiative underscores the growing role of virtual education in breaking down geographical barriers and creating a global classroom. Notably, HAN University and Leiden University waived tuition fees for the participating UoN students.