The Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering in collaboration with the Central Metallurgical Research and Development Institute- Egypt (CMRDI) conducted a three-day training program for Young Scientists and Engineers on Laser cutting, laser beam welding, and laser surface modification of ferrous and non-ferrous alloys at the University of Nairobi’s Towers from 11th March to 15th March 2022. The training was facilitated by Professor Abdel-Monem El-Batahgy of Central Metallurgical Research and Development Institute (CMRDI), Egypt. The purpose of the training was to equip and expand the participants’ knowledge of Laser technology and prepare them to tackle the real-world industrial challenges of our time.

The training was officially opened by Prof Julius Ogeng’o, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Affairs on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Nairobi. Prof Ogeng’o observed that the University seeks to leverage strategic partnerships to advance academic and research excellence and to expose its learners to regional and global job markets, “the partnership partnerships between the Arab League, Ministry of Education, and the Private Sector is a huge advantage for us as a country, Laser technology is necessary for economic development it will boost industrial growth and development.”

The Chair of the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Dr. Thomas Ochuku Mbuya acknowledged the support of the AFTAAC and unwavering commitment and cooperation from the University of Nairobi to see this event come to shape. He called for AFTAAC to incorporate a mobility grant for Ph.D. students to visit Egypt to benefit more from such activities. Also present during the event was the representative from the State Department of Higher Education Mr.  Paul Mungai also emphasized the role of partnerships for sustainable goals.  “This partnership is good for the big four agenda and the industrial goals of our country”, he said.

The facilitator,  Prof.  Abdel-Monem El-Batahgy affirmed the commitment of the Arab League to offer technical support to African countries and to broaden mutual cooperation among various stakeholders to provide opportunities for young scientists and engineers to share and exchange ideas. The opening ceremony on 11th March 2022 was graced by Ambassador Sherine Imam, the Acting Director of AFTAAC, Ambassador Khalid Al Kathiri, Head of the League of Arab States Mission in Nairobi. Other diplomats representing the League of Arab states also attended. The training attracted participants from industry and government departments in addition to staff and students.

This program was supported by the Arab Fund for Technical Assistance for the African States (AFTAAC) as a way of promoting capacity for research and innovation among students and other stakeholders in the African states to steer their industrial development goals.