Kenya Airways (KQ) and London Metropolitan University (London Met) have announced a new partnership aimed at transforming aviation education and workforce development. The collaboration was formalized today through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony held at KQ Pride Centre, attended by key stakeholders from both organizations, government officials, and industry regulators.
This strategic partnership underscores Kenya Airways’ commitment to fostering industry-academic collaboration, enhancing employee capabilities, and driving innovation in the aviation sector. By leveraging London Met’s world- class academic expertise and KQ’s industry leadership, the partnership will provide KQ employees with access to specialized training programs, academic advancement opportunities, and cutting-edge research in aviation.
(TOP: From left – Julius Migos Ogamba, CS, Ministry of Education; Allan Kilavuka, Group MD and CEO, Kenya Airways; Prof Julie Hall, London Metropolitan VC; and Dr Dusty Alahakoon, Faculty, London Met).
Speaking at the event, Allan Kilavuka, Group MD and CEO of Kenya Airways, emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership. “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and the development of human capital. By investing in education and skills development, we are not only empowering our employees but also shaping the future of aviation in Kenya and beyond.”
Empowering Talent and driving Innovation
Tom Shivo, Chief HR Director at KQ, highlighted the partnership’s focus on employee growth and development. “Our people are the backbone of our success. This partnership will provide our employees with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their careers and contribute to the continued success of Kenya Airways. It’s an investment in our most valuable asset – our talent.”
To ensure the highest quality of education, KQ has applied for a tertiary institution license from TVET Authority, which is currently under review. During this interim period, the specialized courses will be available exclusively to KQ employees. Once government approval is secured, the program will extend to the broader public, offering affordable and accessible training across Kenya and the region.
As the partnership unfolds, a suite of aviation-focused degree programs will be introduced, including master’s programs in airline & airport corporate management and aviation management in the digital age, as well as a bachelor’s program in airline, airport & aviation management.
Complementing these programs, London Metropolitan University will provide a 70% scholarship for KQ employees pursuing aviation-related bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Additionally, the university will supply essential training resources, workshops, and certificates, with the potential for scholarship benefits to extend to employees’ family members.
The partnership aligns with Kenya Airways’ strategic initiative to strengthen industry-academic ties, enhance workforce capability, and drive innovation in aviation. It also reflects London Met’s commitment to global collaboration and its mission to provide transformative educational experiences. The MoU signing ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministries of Education, Transport, and Foreign Affairs, industry regulators, and the British High Commission.
The partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter in aviation education and workforce development. Kenya Airways and London Metropolitan University are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence, ensuring that the aviation industry is equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
London Metropolitan University is a dynamic and diverse institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and social mobility. With a rich history of providing transformative education, London Met prepares students and professionals to excel in a rapidly changing world.
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