National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) hosted the Deputy Head of Mission of the European Union Delegation to Kenya, Mr. Ondrej Simek, during a high-level strategic engagement held at the University Seat in Nakuru. The engagement underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing academic excellence, policy-oriented research, and sustainable international partnerships in support of regional and global peace and security initiatives.

The meeting that brought together the University’s management and chaired by the Vice Chancellor Lieutenant General David Tarus aimed at enhancing linkages in research, strategic studies, defence education, innovation and cybersecurity.

The deliberations formed part of NDU-K’s broader strategic efforts to further position the University as a premier national institution of strategic importance in security and defence education, training, research, and policy development. Through such high-level engagements, the University continues to enhance international partnerships and create opportunities for collaboration in areas critical to national, regional, and global security.

The discussions provided an opportunity for National Defence University-Kenya to gain deeper insight into the operational structures and institutional frameworks of the European Union, while exploring avenues for enhanced partnership to advance its mandate in research, strategic studies, defence education, and policy development.

Lt Gen Tarus reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships with the European Union and its member states, guided by professionalism, strategic purpose, and mutual respect. He noted that such collaborations are critical in strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing academic and professional excellence, and supporting regional peace and security initiatives.

The Vice Chancellor further expressed National Defence University-Kenya’s interest in participating in key European Union programmes aimed at strengthening research, enhancing academic excellence.

Speaking during the engagement, Mr. Simek reaffirmed the European Union’s enduring commitment to working closer with member state institutions to advance development cooperation, governance support, security collaboration, and sustainable economic programmes.

He emphasized the important role played by strong academic and strategic institutions such as NDU-K in shaping future leaders and advancing regional and global security dialogue.

The engagement comes at a significant moment for both institutionss, as National Defence University-Kenya commemorates five years since its establishment as a centre of academic and professional excellence, while Kenya and the European Union mark 50 years of diplomatic and strategic relations. These milestones underscore the shared commitment of both parties to the promotion of regional stability, the strengthening of institutional capacity, and the advancement of sustainable peace and security initiatives.