The Open University of Kenya, Kenya Institute of Supplies Management Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance Capacity Building and Shared Resources
Konza Technopolis, Kenya – 16th June 2025
The Open University of Kenya (OUK) and the Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) are in the final stages of discussions to formalize a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing institutional capacity, driving professional development and maximizing the use of shared resources in the higher education and supply chain sectors among other initiatives of mutual interest.
The consultative forum, held at Konza Technopolis, at the Open University of Kenya premises, brought together leadership from both institutions to deliberate on a framework for collaboration that goes beyond formal agreements to deliver real, and measurable outcomes.
The OUK Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Carolyne Omulando, emphasized the need for practical, high-impact partnerships that leverage each institution’s unique strengths.
“Our intention is not to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding merely as a procedural formality; rather, we seek to deliver tangible value by leveraging our advanced digital infrastructure to enhance online education delivery, institutional efficiency, and support flexible learning, while also tapping into KISM’s well-established physical facilities in a way that is mutually beneficial,” Prof. Omulando said.
“Many MOUs are signed and then shelved. Without a dedicated follow-up structure, little is achieved. Our first priority should be to develop an actionable implementation roadmap,” she added.
KISM CEO, Mr. Kenneth Matiba, affirmed the importance of governance and accountability in strategic partnerships, citing KISM’s practice of tracking MOU performance through a well structured framework.
“To promote a sustained success, we have made MOUs and their implementation a priority,” Mr. Kenneth Matiba said.
KISM underscored the importance of establishing a Joint Implementation Committee to monitor progress and uphold accountability. “Such structured follow-up is essential to ensuring that the partnership yields meaningful and measurable impact,” Matiba said.
Strategic Focus Areas
The proposed partnership outlines several high-priority areas for cooperation, including:
- Establishment of a joint virtual library to support digital learning at the Kenya College of Supply Chain Management.
- Technical support from OUK in designing and implementing a robust Learning Management System (LMS) for KISM.
- Capacity building and mentorship programs to address the shortage of qualified faculty in fields such as supply chain and ICT.
- Joint executive education programs, with potential co-hosting in regional hubs like Rwanda and Arusha.
- Internship placements and academic progression pathways for KISM students seeking undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities at OUK.
- Exchange of best practices in governance, curriculum design, digital infrastructure, and professional training.
Prof. Omulando reaffirmed OUK’s readiness to support KISM’s digital ambitions.
“We have a robust Learning Management System and comprehensive digital repositories that serve both learners and faculty. We are more than ready to collaborate in supporting KISM in leveraging technology to meets your needs,” she stated.
Enhancing Academic and Professional Pathways
The meeting also addressed the alignment of academic programs. Responding to KISM’s inquiry about specialized supply chain degrees, Prof. Omulando noted that OUK currently offers a Bachelor of Commerce with a supply chain option.
“While we do not yet have a standalone degree in supply chain management, we recognize the rising demand and the necessity for professional licensing. We’re committed to creating seamless pathways for graduates to advance into certification programmes,” she explained.
Mr. Matiba highlighted the popularity and growing relevance of supply chain education, suggesting the development of a dedicated Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management, citing successful models at international institutions.
“That is an area we must deliberately consider, by supporting professional development and encouraging qualified individuals to pursue academic oriented careers,” Prof. Omulando said, referencing OUK’s Growing Academic Programme Portfolio.
A Strategic Partnership with National Impact
The meeting concluded on a high note, with both institutions expressing strong commitment to transforming ideas into actionable outcomes that will drive educational innovation and professional excellence.
“This partnership is not only timely—it is strategic. It aligns with our shared vision of strengthening digital learning, enhancing student academic transition, and building institutional resilience. We are excited about what lies ahead,” Prof. Omulando concluded.
Mr. Matiba was accompanied by the College Principal, Ms. Christine Ikindu, and senior members of the KISM staff, underscoring the importance of the collaboration at both leadership and operational levels.
With the groundwork laid, the OUK-KISM partnership is poised to redefine how public institutions collaborate for national capacity development, digital transformation, and professional empowerment in Kenya and beyond.