A New Era for Health Education in Africa
Amref International University (AMIU) has taken a significant step forward, marking a transformative phase in its development with the dual celebration of its 6th Graduation Ceremony and the official launch of its state-of-the-art Northlands Campus in Ruiru, Nairobi. This milestone event, themed “Localising Innovations to Strengthen Primary Health Care in Africa,” brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, faculty members, students, and alumni.
Among the notable attendees was former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, who played a central role in the celebrations. Her presence underscored the importance of health education and equity in shaping Africa’s future. In a powerful address, she emphasized the critical need for innovation and community-centered care in the healthcare sector. As a gesture of her ongoing commitment, she announced the awarding of 10 fully-funded scholarships to outstanding students pursuing careers in health sciences.
These scholarships are designed to strengthen Africa’s health workforce by supporting talented individuals dedicated to improving community health outcomes. Mrs. Kenyatta highlighted the potential of the new campus to provide innovative, context-specific solutions that can make a real difference in people’s lives. She encouraged graduates to focus on research, innovation, and compassion in building health systems that meet the needs of African communities.
Over 400 graduates received their degrees, diplomas, and certificates across a range of health-related disciplines. This achievement further solidifies AMIU’s role in cultivating the next generation of African health leaders. The university continues to expand its impact, with the newly launched Northlands Campus serving as a key driver of this growth.
The Northlands Campus is not just an architectural marvel but also a significant academic milestone. It features advanced laboratories, a technology-driven innovation hub, world-class library facilities, and modern learning spaces that support both in-person and virtual learning. These resources are essential in preparing students for the challenges of the modern healthcare landscape.
Prof. Joachim Osur, Vice Chancellor of AMIU, emphasized that the campus will enable the university to scale up its enrollment from 2,000 to over 10,000 students. He reiterated the institution’s mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education that is tailored to the unique realities of African societies. At AMIU, the focus is on community-based education, ensuring that students gain the practical skills needed to address real-world health challenges.
The expansion of AMIU has been made possible through strong partnerships with philanthropists and institutions. Contributions from figures such as MacKenzie Scott and the Kenyatta Family have played a crucial role in supporting the university’s vision. These collaborations have helped establish AMIU as a regional center for health education and innovation.
Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO of Amref Health Africa, highlighted the importance of African-led solutions in addressing the continent’s health challenges. He stressed that sustainable progress in healthcare must be driven by contextually relevant education and collaborative efforts. By working together, stakeholders can develop effective, localized solutions to some of the most pressing health issues facing Africa today.
Founded in 2017, AMIU is a constituent of Amref Health Africa, a Pan-African organization with over 65 years of experience in public and community health. The university offers a wide range of programs, including postgraduate, undergraduate, diploma, certificate, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to become influential health professionals across the continent.
As AMIU continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of fostering innovation, promoting equitable access to education, and empowering communities through health-focused initiatives. The university’s achievements reflect a broader movement toward strengthening Africa’s healthcare systems and ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for all.
