University of Bremen, is a medium-sized German university with around 20,000 students. UB offers a wide range of subjects and degrees for its committed and talented students: more than 100 master’s and bachelor’s degrees, as well as the state law exam. Moreover, with research-based learning, the university has reinterpreted project-based courses, a defining feature originating from when the University of Bremen was founded. As part of the European university network YUFE–Young Universities. Institute Technology and Education (ITB) of the University of Bremen (approx. 50 employees) has been working in Research on Vocational and Higher Education and Training since more than 35 years. It is one of the largest independent research facilities on this topic in the world. It focuses on the interaction of work, technology and education and on people’s influence on this triangle, aiming at a close interaction between reforming vocational education and training and innovation in work and technology. Thus, holistic mindset always guides the research activities between theory and practice to develop, implement and/or prove applied teaching and learning (e.g. innovative concepts and methods and target groups) and its structures (e.g. curricula and learning venues). Therefore, the research is based not only on multidisciplinary (e.g. cooperation between educational researchers, professional scientists, engineers, psychologists, economics), but also on internationality. As a key player in the European Research Network Vocational Education and Training (VETNET), we have immediate access to expertise and people in VET sector in Europe.
Maristak Durango, is an Education and Training Center located in the Basque Country. University Prep Education (baccalaureate degree), Vocational Training courses (levels 1 to 3 according to EQF standards), Continuing Education courses, and occupational training are offered. Some of the areas of training covered by Maristak Durango are Computer Sciences, Robotics or electromechanical, Administration and Finance, Mechanical Design Fabrication, and so on. Since 2003 the center is working on adapting educational methods to the new current needs. All vocational studies are carried out with a PBL methodology. Moreover, Maristak Durango actively cooperates in the dissemination of quality in training and promotes sustainable development goals. UNICEF has recognised Maristak Durango (Level 1 recognition, 2022-2024) as a reference centre for education in child and adolescent rights and global citizenship. Maristak Durango also cooperates with companies, public administration, and the Basque Employment Service (LANBIDE) in the Basque System of Professional Qualifications. In addition, since 2017, Maristak Durango has been actively collaborating with the NGDO SED in the design and development of service-learning challenges focused on digital and electrical solutions for Kenya. Due to its experiences and co-working with University of Rongo, ONGD SED, OYSDG as well as schools in the region.
Warnborough College (WCI), was founded 27 years ago in 1997 in Ireland. The college specialises in the provision of vocational and educational programmes across a range of disciplines and academic levels. Our students attend from both within and without Europe. We use various methods of instruction, including face-to-face classes, online and blended learning. In particular, our on-line and distance learning courses have been very useful in targeting learners who are unable to avail of classroom-style learning for various reasons (e.g. prisoners, physically disabled). Having students from around the world means that we are au fait with language, learning and cultural differences which may impede successful learning. We have been able to design courses around special needs using different technologies. We have a support network of tutors, mentors, and even local face-to-face teachers to help students to learn. In terms of VET provision, Warnborough College has over 600 courses focusing on vocational and educational training in areas such as agriculture, business and management, entrepreneurial studies, horticulture, hospitality and tourism and environmental science. Outcomes for each course are practical in nature, with discrete outputs and skills. The College has 20 years of experience in transnational education, working with partner institutions and organisations around the world to develop and offer programmes to students from different backgrounds and locations, at all educational levels. We have worked with the Russian government on teacher-training projects. In the Middle East, we have collaborated with local institutions on blended and distance learning programmes. We have worked with universities in Thailand and the Philippines to create capacity-building and entrepreneurial programmes for women in rural areas. Our corporate training clients include Honda, Casio, Disneyland, MTR and EgyptAir. As a key player in the International Vocational Education and Training Association (IVETA), we have immediate access to expertise and people in VET sector around the world. We should be able to contribute to the success of this project, as we have strong background in teacher professionalisation and development. Many of our Erasmus+ projects to date have centred on teacher development through new or emergent pedagogies, didactics and thought process change. Most recently, our Adaptive Expertise project focuses on how teachers need to adapt in the face of increasing diversity in classrooms. Our INCLUSION2 project looks at how teachers and schools can creatively co-create new knowledge for a sustainable future. We also work with disadvantaged communities to increase their opportunities, employability and other skills, and progress mindsets.
University of Rongo, has already carried various research activities in the field of education and vocational education and training. They are used to the regional conditions and know the communities in Homa Bay. Apart from that they have strong relations to the Kenyan Ministry of Education and Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) and have already offered online learning. This makes them perfect to carry out the current state analysis on which further project project activities will build on. Apart from that, they will will function as a regional coordinator and contact person for VET schools, as at the beginning of the project, participating teachers will come to Rongo University to get additional trainings and to be able to participate in virtual project meetings.
Miramba Mixed Secondary School
St Joseph Olando Mixed Secondary School
Kiabuya Mixed Secondary School
Associated Partners
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Kenya
Weihub Victoria Limited
Bremer Umwelt Beratung e.V
Asociacion de Centros de Formacion Proi
Delegation of German Industry and Commerce
Solidaridad, Educacion, Desarrollo
Orore Youths Sports Development Project
Zizi Afrique Foundation