We are excited to announce that the second cohort of nursing students from Kenya has also successfully arrived on 28th of September 2024 and joined the programme, continuing the momentum of this cross-cultural exchange.
The SSTEA research project in collaboration with University of Applied Sciences Koblenz, Mount Kenya University - MKU and AG-Career Hub has successfully placed 13 nursing students from Kenya to undergo training as nurses in German hospitals. Click here for more insights. Second MKU_Koblenz Cohort in Germany
Training in Germany – a new partner has joined
We are excited to announce that our parter, the BBT-Group, have expanded their collaboration by bringing on board a second institution, Krankenhaus Tauberbischofsheim, to host some of our nursing students for their apprenticeships. This new partnership reflects our shared commitment to providing diverse and enriching learning experiences for our students, allowing them to gain valuable hands-on training in different healthcare environments. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this expanded collaboration will have on our students' professional growth and their future careers in nursing.
Key Lessons from the First Cohort
Since the arrival of the first cohort, we have gained valuable insights into what contributes to a successful integration and professional experience for the students. A key factor in the programme’s success has been the exceptional support from employers. The students at Caritas-Krankenhaus Bad Mergentheim have benefited greatly from this strong backing. The employers have played a vital role in ensuring a smooth transition for the students by actively engaging in their integration into both the workplace and German society. This support includes fostering strong interactions between the students and hospital staff, which has helped create an inclusive and collaborative work environment.
Another crucial aspect that has emerged from the first cohort's experience is the importance of cultural openness. The students, who came to Germany with a genuine willingness to integrate into the local culture, have found that their adaptability has been a key factor in their success. They were well-prepared through German language courses and the intercultural preparation course at MKU and, just as importantly, they embraced the new culture with an open mind, which has accelerated their ability to adjust and thrive in a foreign environment.
Mentorship for a Smoother Transition
A unique advantage of this programme is the mentorship system that has organically developed. The students from the first cohort are now taking on the role of mentors for the incoming second cohort. This peer mentorship is proving to be a significant asset, as the first group can offer practical advice, share their own experiences, and provide emotional support to help the new arrivals navigate challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and adapting to the healthcare system in Germany. The first cohort’s mentorship is expected to ease the transition process for the new students, providing them with a stronger foundation for success.
Ongoing Language, Cultural Training & Support from Kenyans in the diaspora
In addition to the support from employers and peer mentors, the students’ foundation in the German language continues to be a critical element in their integration. The language training provided at Mount Kenya University’s Thika campus not only equipped the students with the language skills needed for their work but also allowed them to connect with their colleagues and patients more effectively. Along with language training and intercultural preparation helped the students understand German norms, traditions, and expectations, which further enhanced their ability to integrate smoothly.
Kenyans in the diaspora in Germany have also contributed to the project, providing support to students both in Germany and back home. In 2023 and again this year, our team members Susan Dettmer and Joy Wendo visited the students to inspire them and help them cultivate a positive mindset as they prepare for their transition to Germany.
![]() |
![]() |
|
![]() |
![]() |
Looking Ahead
The SSTEA project continues to be a major milestone in fostering international cooperation in healthcare. With the arrival of the second cohort, the programme’s long-term impact is becoming even more apparent. The engagement and dedication from the partners in Germany and in Kenya remain instrumental in providing ongoing support, career guidance, and mentorship, ensuring that the students’ transition to life and work in Germany remains as smooth as possible.
As we look to the future, the third cohort is set to begin preparations soon, marking another exciting chapter in this programme. With the lessons learned from the first group, the support from German employers, and the students' readiness to embrace new experiences, we are confident that this exchange will continue to thrive and expand, benefiting both the students and the healthcare institutions involved.
Application process
Interested to join the other cohorts for trainings in Germany? Click here for more details: Apprenticeship Programmes (Ausbildungen) in Germany