The National Defence University–Kenya (NDU-K) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaborations with partners and stakeholders as an enabler to advance its mandate of upholding high academic standards for national, regional and global impact.

While hosting a delegation from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on a courtesy call to his office, the Vice-Chancellor, Lieutenant General David Tarus, stated that the University is open to collaboration in key areas such as research partnerships, innovation, curriculum development, conferences and symposiums and publications focusing on regional security.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the importance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as both a training and research priority, noting the University’s unique mandate in conducting education and research that address national, regional and global security challenges.

The ICRC delegation was led by Ms. Marie Dubeau, Head of the ICRC Regional Delegation, who explained that the visit aimed to explore potential areas of collaboration between the two institutions. She confirmed that the ICRC is keen to partner with NDU-K in research and capacity-building initiatives, particularly in emerging technologies and the practical application of IHL.

Ms. Dubeau further highlighted the role of the ICRC in ensuring that International Humanitarian Law is effectively integrated into education, training, and operational activities. She noted that collaboration with NDU-K would strengthen ongoing efforts between the ICRC and the Kenya Defence Forces to enhance the integration of IHL into education and training programmes.

Both institutions agreed to continue discussions aimed at developing comprehensive and mutually beneficial collaboration strategies. Proposed areas of cooperation include curriculum development, research, capacity building, conferences and symposiums, e-resource sharing platforms, and joint publications.

The Vice-Chancellor was accompanied by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Centre for Security and Strategic Studies), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs), the Director of Applied Research. Strategy and Policy and the Director of Legal Services.