Nairobi, Kenya – 21st February 2025 – Kenya Airways has taken a significant step toward reshaping aviation education in Kenya through a strategic collaboration with London Metropolitan University (London Met). The two institutions formalized their partnership today by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the KQ Pride Centre, in a ceremony attended by senior officials from both organizations, government representatives, and aviation regulators.
This partnership marks a major milestone in Kenya Airways’ strategy to strengthen ties between academia and the aviation industry. It is designed to boost innovation, enhance the skills of the airline’s workforce, and open new avenues for academic and professional development. By combining Kenya Airways’ operational expertise with London Met’s globally recognized academic strengths, the initiative will introduce advanced training programs, academic pathways, and collaborative research opportunities in the aviation sector.
A Future-Focused Vision for Aviation
Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka described the partnership as a bold move to drive innovation and nurture talent within the aviation industry. “This initiative reflects our long-term commitment to education, innovation, and the empowerment of our workforce. Through this partnership, we aim to build a stronger future for aviation in Kenya and across the region.”
Building Talent and Driving Excellence
Kenya Airways’ Chief Human Resources Director, Tom Shivo, emphasized that the agreement prioritizes the growth and development of KQ staff. “Our employees are central to everything we do. Providing them with access to advanced education and training equips them to thrive and strengthens our organization as a whole. This is an investment in people, which is our greatest asset.”
To support this endeavor, Kenya Airways has applied for a tertiary institution license from Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Authority. While the application is under review, the initial courses will be offered exclusively to KQ employees. Once the license is approved, the programs will be opened to the general public, making professional aviation training more accessible across Kenya and the wider region.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
As the collaboration evolves, it will introduce several academic programs focused on aviation, including master’s degrees in airline and airport corporate management, aviation management in the digital era, and a bachelor’s degree in airline, airport, and aviation management.
London Metropolitan University will offer substantial support through a 70% scholarship for Kenya Airways employees enrolling in aviation-focused undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university will also provide training materials, facilitate specialized workshops, and offer certifications. There is also potential for the scholarship program to be extended to the families of KQ employees.
Strengthening Global Collaboration
This initiative is part of Kenya Airways’ broader strategic plan to deepen industry-academic linkages, enhance workforce competency, and promote innovation. It also highlights London Met’s dedication to international collaboration and its mission to deliver impactful, accessible education.
The MoU signing brought together key representatives from Kenya’s Ministries of Education, Transport, and Foreign Affairs, industry stakeholders, and officials from the British High Commission, underscoring the high-level support behind this transformative partnership.
Kenya Airways and London Metropolitan University are committed to cultivating a culture of lifelong learning, innovation, and academic excellence to prepare the aviation sector for future challenges and growth.
