Assessment Ceremony of the Luban Workshop Sub-Centre at MUST

On the evening of 6th December, 2024, Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) warmly hosted an event that highlighted the strength of international collaboration: The Assessment Ceremony of the Kenya Luban Workshop Sub-Centre at MUST. The ceremony marked another milestone in the flourishing partnership between Meru University of Science and Technology and the Republic of China, with distinguished guests and university representatives coming together in a celebration of progress.
The event was graced by a delegation from China, representing the pinnacle of educational expertise. Among the honoured guests were:
- Li Xiaoxia, Deputy Chief of Hebei District People’s Government of Tianjin, China;
- Duan Yarui, Head of Hebei District Educational Bureau of Tianjin, China;
- Guo Dianhua, Chairperson of the Board of Tianjin Academy of Educational Sciences, China, and Director of Tianjin Luban Workshop Research and Promotion Center;
- Yang Yan, Director of Lifelong Learning Research Center at Tianjin Academy of Education Sciences and Deputy Director of the Tianjin Luban Workshop Research and Promotion Center;
- Lyu Jingquan, Professor at Tianjin University of Technology and Education and Director General of the Expert Committee for the Construction of Luban Workshop;
- Li Yan, Chairperson of the Board of Tianjin City Vocational College.

MUST’s leadership, including members of the Council, Management Board, Deans, Directors and students, showcased the university’s commitment to fostering global relationships and advancing technical education in Kenya.


MUST Vice-Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, in his address, welcomed the guests and expressed gratitude to the Chinese government and Tianjin City Vocational College (TCVC) for their great partnership. “The establishment of the Luban Workshop here at Meru University of Science and Technology is a testament to the power of collaboration,” he noted. “It stands as a beacon of opportunity and innovation, paving the way for transformative education in Kenya and beyond.” Since its inauguration on 4th September, 2023, the Luban Workshop has revolutionized technical education at MUST. With state-of-the-art equipment and a focus on hands-on learning, it has set the stage for programs like the soon-to-be-launched E-Commerce curriculum, expected to admit its first cohort in September 2025.

The ceremony highlighted the shared vision of advancing education through the Engineering, Practice, Innovation, Project (EPIP) model, which aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum. Teacher training on EPIP has already equipped MUST faculty to deliver cutting-edge education and additional support for training was requested to ensure the model’s success. Another cornerstone of the partnership is the potential for student and staff exchange programs. “Imagine the enrichment that would come from experiencing China’s rich culture and advanced technologies, while your students immerse themselves in Africa’s vibrancy here at MUST,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

The guests were also lauded for facilitating the implementers’ training in China in November 2023. Inspired by the legendary Chinese engineer Luban, the workshop serves as a bridge between academia and industry, empowering students with skills for the 21st-century workforce.
The evening was about progress and a celebration of the deep bonds between Kenya and China. Guests shared light moments, cultural exchanges and mutual aspirations for the future. The ceremony echoed the spirit of togetherness, a commitment to shared growth, and the promise of education as a transformative force

As the event concluded, a sense of optimism filled the air. The Luban Workshop Sub-Centre at MUST is a legacy, one that will shape the future of education and innovation across Africa.
“With your continued belief and investment, we are confident that this partnership will inspire generations to come,” the Vice-Chancellor affirmed.
The Assessment Ceremony was a resounding success, a vivid reminder of what can be achieved when nations unite for a common purpose: building a brighter future for all.
