(KUE, May 19, 2026) — A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Kotebe University of Education and The Joe Akech Foundation based in Kenya to create opportunities for students from Kenya and other African countries to study at Kotebe University of Education. The agreement reflects the two institutions’ shared commitment to youth empowerment, quality education, and regional integration across Africa.
The President of Kotebe University of Education, Dr. Teshome Nekatibeb, who signed the agreement on behalf of the university, welcomed guests and highlighted the university’s long history of training qualified teachers and educational leaders. He explained that, based on the University`s extensive experience and contribution to education, the Ethiopian government recently upgraded the institution into a full-fledged University of Education dedicated to producing competent education force.
Dr. Teshome stated that the university is currently implementing several reform initiatives, including expanding international partnerships and attracting students from both within Ethiopia and abroad. He emphasized that the partnership with The Joe Akech Foundation is highly significant for the university.
He also noted that Ethiopia and Kenya share strong historical and diplomatic ties. Under the agreement, Kotebe University of Education will provide classrooms, laboratories, libraries, ICT facilities, qualified academic staff, safe and hygienic accommodation, nutritious meals, and healthcare services for enrolled students. The partnership will also promote international academic programs, student and faculty exchange opportunities, joint research projects and leadership development.
His Worship Hon. Kotonya Joseph Akech, who signed the agreement on behalf of The Joe Akech Foundation, shared that he had studied at Kotebe College of Teachers Education nearly 50 years ago. He expressed his happiness at returning to the institution and stated that the agreement would not only strengthen People to people diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Kenya but also create valuable educational opportunities for African youth.
According to the agreement, The Joe Akech Foundation will recruit and select qualified Kenyan students who meet the admission requirements of Kotebe University of Education. The foundation will also coordinate and mobilize resources for tuition fees, meals, accommodation, transportation between Kenya and Ethiopia, healthcare expenses and supports the improvement of facilities.
During the event, Dr. Tewoderos Mulgeta presented a brief overview on the genesis of Kotebe University of Education, which was followed by discussions among participants.
At the signing ceremony, legendary Ethiopian long-distance runner Haile Gebrselassie remarked that Ethiopia and Kenya are not only neighboring countries but also close friends. Representatives from both institutions delivered remarks during the closing session and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to successfully implement the agreement.
Following the ceremony, Hon. Kotonya Joseph Akech visited the dormitory and areas of the campus where he lived as a student nearly five decades ago.
The MoU signing event was facilitated by Dr. Melkamu Afeta, Director for the University-Industry Linkage and Technology Transfer.
