Strengthening Global Healthcare-Great Lakes University and Uzima University Kisumu Partner with Lebenshilfe Tirol
In a bid to address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in Austria and foster international cooperation, Great Lakes University Kisumu and Uzima University Kisumu have embarked on a pioneering partnership with Lebenshilfe Tirol. This collaboration aims to facilitate the deployment of Kenyan nurses to Austria, bridging crucial skill gaps while promoting cultural exchange and mutual socio-economic development.
Uzima University, established in 2012 as a Constituent College of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, gained its University status in 2020. Specializing in Medical and Bio-medical sciences and Research, Uzima University is accredited by the Commission for University Education and professional bodies such as KMPDC, NCK, and COC. With a focus on competency-based curriculum and community-based research, the university aims to address emerging healthcare challenges globally through faculties like Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, and Clinical Medicine.
Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK), chartered in 2006, traces its roots back to the Tropical Institute of Community Health and Development in Africa (TICH), founded in 1998. GLUK aims to develop effective managers of health and development initiatives in Africa and beyond, bridging training with service delivery programs. With faculties in Health Sciences, Arts and Science, Business Administration, and Hospitality and Tourism, GLUK focuses on the needs of vulnerable communities, fostering holistic development.
Lebenshilfe Austria, with its rich legacy of supporting individuals with disabilities for over 60 years, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Led by Vice President Georg Willeit, a seasoned NGO manager known for his commitment to social justice and sustainability, Lebenshilfe Tirol is at the forefront of driving positive change globally.
The partnership from other Kenyan universities has already achieved significant milestones:
Groundbreaking Collaboration
The alliance between the Kenyan universities and Lebenshilfe Tirol marks a significant step in addressing Austria's healthcare workforce needs.
Comprehensive Training Standards
Comprehensive pre-departure training programs have been developed to ensure that Kenyan nurses are well-prepared for their assignments in Austria, setting high standards for proficiency and professionalism.
Language Proficiency
Over 50 Kenyan students have undergone rigorous German language training, elevating their proficiency to the B1 level, thus ensuring seamless integration into the Austrian healthcare environment.
Academic Excellence
Extensive research has been conducted to secure certification for the Bachelor of Nursing curriculum in collaboration with an Austrian Applied Sciences University, guaranteeing academic excellence for aspiring nurses.
Strategic Engagements
High-level engagements with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Labour and the Austrian Ambassador, have been instrumental in streamlining recruitment processes and aligning nursing contracts with Austrian standards.
Fair Employment Practices
Championing fair employment practices, the partnership ensures that Kenyan nurses receive identical benefits to their Austrian counterparts, promoting equality and dignity in the workplace.
The rationale for this partnership is clear, Austria is facing acute shortages in skilled labor, particularly in sectors such as healthcare. With up to 80% of Austrian companies reporting shortages in skilled workers, the demand for qualified nursing staff is more pressing than ever. By leveraging the young and vibrant talent pool in Kenya, this collaboration not only meets Austria's immediate workforce needs but also lays the foundation for long-term cooperation and mutual growth.
Existing collaborations, such as the agreement between Mount Kenya University and Lebenshilfe Tirol, further the success and potential of such partnerships. With nursing graduates undergoing German training to meet international standards, these collaborations are paving the way for a brighter future for healthcare professionals in Kenya and beyond.
In conclusion, the partnership between Great Lakes University Kisumu, Uzima University Kisumu, and Lebenshilfe Tirol represents a paradigm shift in global healthcare collaboration. By pooling resources, expertise, and talent, this initiative not only addresses immediate workforce shortages but also fosters a culture of cooperation, diversity, and excellence in healthcare delivery. As we look towards the future, let us continue to build bridges, break barriers, and create a world where healthcare knows no boundaries.