• The first scholarship offered to Kenyan students by the then USSR was in 1961
• Alumni chair Eng Boniface Muthoka says a strong network has grown since then
Image: MANNY ANYANGO
Boniface Muthoka is the current chairperson of the Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Alumni Association, a position he has held for the last six years. He is also a founding member of the association that has more than 2,500 registered alumni.
Muthoka studied engineering in Russia and has been actively involved in helping new and continuing students who have secured scholarships in the Eastern European country.
He spoke to the Star about his journey studying in Russia and the activities he has been up to as Kenya and Russia continue to strengthen ties through partnerships in various sectors.
What was your experience studying in Russia?
My experience studying in Russia was enriching and transformative. The education system is rigorous and deeply rooted in scientific research and innovation, and I had the opportunity to learn not only the academic curriculum but also to immerse myself in the rich Russian culture, which broadened my global perspective and contributed to my personal and professional growth.
How does one overcome the challenge of language barrier?
It requires dedication to learning Russian, which is facilitated by language courses provided by universities in Russia. Immersing oneself in the local culture and practising daily conversations are also effective strategies.
Our alumni chapter offers support and resources to help new students with language acquisition by connecting the new students with the students who are already studying in Russia to help them integrate seamlessly after arrival in Russia. Currently, we have free online Russian language courses being offered by Russian universities.
What support does one get after getting a scholarship to study in Russia?Upon receiving a scholarship to study in Russia, students are provided with comprehensive support that includes tuition, subsidised hostel accommodation and a monthly stipend, which depends on one’s performance. Currently, foreign students can do part-time jobs as well as full-time jobs during holidays.
The Russian government and universities also offer orientation programmes and continuous academic guidance through their international department to help international students adapt to the new environment.
Does this support extend to post-university?
While the primary support is during the study period, alumni networks and associations, such as ours, play a crucial role in extending support post-university. These networks offer professional connections, career advice, mentorship programmes and opportunities for further collaboration with Russian institutions.
The universities have a department dedicated to alumni partnership and collaboration. A good example is People’s Friendship University, named after Patrice Lumumba. It organises annual alumni conferences.
How many Kenyans are registered in the alumni chapter?
Currently, we have more than 2,500 Kenyans registered in the alumni chapter, mostly in health, engineering and academia. Our community continues to grow as more graduates return from Russia and CIS countries.
Being a member of the alumni chapter provides access to a robust network of professionals who share similar educational backgrounds. Members benefit from networking opportunities, career development workshops and collaborations in academic and professional projects. The chapter also serves as a bridge for members to participate in bilateral initiatives between Kenya and Russia.
What role does the alumni chapter play in strengthening Kenya-Russia relations?
The alumni chapter serves as a crucial bridge in promoting cultural diplomacy between Kenya and Russia. Alumni members, who have experienced Russian culture first-hand during their studies, often become cultural ambassadors upon returning to Kenya. They actively participate in organising cultural exchange programmes, such as Russian language courses, film screenings and exhibitions showcasing Russian art, literature and traditions.
The chapter plays a significant role in facilitating educational collaboration between Kenyan and Russian institutions by working with Kenyan universities to establish academic partnerships, student exchange programmes and joint research projects with Russian counterparts. It also actively promotes Russian scholarships and study opportunities to Kenyan students.
How have Kenya-Russia relations improved over time?
Kenya-Russia relations have deep historical roots, dating back to when the Soviet Union (USSR) opened its mission in Kenya in 1964. One of the significant milestones was the first scholarship offered to Kenyan students by the USSR in 1961, which laid the foundation for educational exchange between our countries.
Over the years, the number of scholarships offered to Kenyan students has steadily increased, reflecting the deepening ties between Kenya and Russia. These scholarships have enabled many Kenyans to pursue higher education in Russia, especially in technical and scientific fields, contributing to Kenya's development.
The mutual respect and recognition of each other's potential have laid a solid foundation for future collaborations. Today, the relationship is marked by increased diplomatic engagements, trade and a continued commitment to educational and cultural exchange programmes. But as we move forward, there is immense potential for further growth in areas such as technology transfer, joint research initiatives and cultural exchange.
In Russia, students are often required to defend their knowledge orally in front of a panel, which encourages critical thinking, effective communication and the ability to articulate one's thoughts under pressure
Do you think the relations can grow further? And in what areas?
Yes, I firmly believe that Kenya-Russia relations have significant potential to grow further. One area of growth is in education, where the increase in scholarships provided by Russia to Kenyan students can be expanded. The first scholarship offered to Kenyans by the USSR in 1961, which by then used to be like two scholarships a year, has grown to more than 60 government scholarships per annum.
Trade between the two countries can be expanded. Kenya already exports flowers, avocados, tea and coffee to Russia, while Russia supplies Kenya with essential goods like wheat, fertilisers and machinery. By diversifying trade to include other sectors, such as technology, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy, both countries can benefit from new economic opportunities.
Finally, there is potential for collaboration in science and technology. Joint research projects, particularly in agriculture, engineering and environmental conservation, could be areas where Kenya and Russia can work together to address global challenges.
How easy is it to access opportunities?
How is the chapter involved? Accessing opportunities is becoming increasingly easier with the growing networks and partnerships between Kenya and Russia. The alumni chapter actively disseminates information about scholarships, internships and job opportunities to its members and helps facilitate applications through mentorship and guidance.
What can the Kenyan education system borrow from Russia?
The Kenyan education system could greatly benefit from adopting Russia's approach to exams and assessments. In Russia, exams are not solely focused on rote memorisation. Instead, they emphasise understanding, problem-solving and the practical application of knowledge. Students are often required to defend their knowledge orally in front of a panel, which encourages critical thinking, effective communication and the ability to articulate one's thoughts under pressure.
Moreover, Russia places a strong emphasis on continuous assessment throughout the academic year, rather than relying solely on final exams. This helps to ensure that students engage consistently with the material and develop a deeper understanding over time.
By incorporating similar methods in Kenya, we could promote a more holistic and practical approach to learning, better preparing our students for real-world challenges.