Mount Kenya University is intensifying its push toward artificial intelligence-powered learning after Vice Chancellor Deogratius Jaganyi led a high-level university delegation to China for a global education and technology conference.
Prof. Jaganyi is attending the international “AI+Education: Transformation, Development, Governance” conference in Hangzhou, where education leaders, policymakers, and technology experts are discussing the growing impact of artificial intelligence on modern learning systems.
The conference was organised by China’s Ministry of Education alongside the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province and focused on how AI is reshaping teaching methods, knowledge production, assessments, and digital learning governance.
MKU Signs Strategic AI Agreements
During the conference, Prof. Jaganyi met several Chinese education and technology leaders, including Zeng Botao and Du Qingbo.
The MKU delegation later signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding in front of thousands of conference participants, marking another step in the university’s international technology collaboration strategy.
University officials said the agreements are expected to support AI integration across teaching, research, assessment systems, and digital innovation programs at the institution.
The Vice Chancellor is also expected to tour several Chinese universities and institutions to negotiate additional partnerships covering technology, research, and higher education development.
Focus on AI-Driven Learning
Conference discussions centred on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education, with global experts warning that institutions must adapt quickly to emerging digital learning trends.
Participants explored how AI can improve classroom instruction, personalise learning experiences, strengthen assessment systems, and support education governance while maintaining ethical standards and data security.
International organisations including UNESCO have already introduced frameworks guiding responsible AI use in schools and universities, including teacher competencies, digital literacy, and ethical AI implementation.
MKU says it plans to align itself with these international standards as it expands its digital learning infrastructure.
Positioning MKU as a Regional Technology Leader
The university’s partnership with Chinese ICT company Nanjing Zhongxing Xinyanda Information Technology Co. began in 2024 and has since expanded into broader academic and industry collaborations.
Officials believe the latest agreements could accelerate the adoption of AI-powered teaching systems, secure online assessment tools, and advanced research platforms within the university.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen MKU’s reputation as one of the institutions leading digital education transformation in East Africa.
Education stakeholders say the growing collaboration between African universities and global technology partners reflects the increasing importance of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of higher education.
