Thika: Law students from Mount Kenya University are set to receive a training boost in arbitration law after the institution entered into an agreement with law institutes in both Kenya and South Africa.
According to Kenya News Agency, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the institution and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Kenya branch and the International Law Institute – South African Centre for Excellence (ILI-SACE) is set to bolster learning in alternative dispute resolution. This development aligns with the Judiciary’s continued advocacy for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a more cost-effective method of resolving conflicts.
Speaking during the signing of the MOUs at the university’s Main Campus in Thika town, MKU Vice Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi emphasized that the partnership focuses on mutual capacity building, innovation in legal practice, and advancing justice through practical, world-class learning programs. He highlighted that MKU, through their Centre for International Law (CIDLAW) based at their Parklands Law School in Nairobi, will contribute academic infrastructure and student reach, while CIArb will provide professional arbitration expertise and global networks.
On its part, ILI-SACE will offer international standards in arbitration and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance training. Prof Jaganyi encouraged students to embrace the opportunity, noting that arbitration has become a fair, transparent dispute resolution mechanism across the continent. He stated, “The cost efficiencies, effectiveness, and flexibility of arbitration appeal to many people over court litigation. We applaud the government for embracing arbitration within the Kenyan law systems. This is a training area that our students should not miss.”
Jacqueline Waihenya, Chairperson of the CIArb Kenya Chapter, remarked that the opening up of global opportunities by digital technology is likely to lead to legal disputes, resulting in a demand for arbitration services. She advised students to take advantage of the training opportunity, especially considering the subsidized costs.
Mr. Swithin Munyantwali, Vice Chairman and Co-Founder of ILI – South African Centre for Excellence, called for intensified training and acceptance of youths as arbitrators, allowing Africa to reduce its reliance on elderly arbitrators from the Western world. Key activities under this MOU will include organizing high-profile public lectures on investment arbitration and emerging legal themes, as well as joint research and mentorship programs.
MKU students will also be exposed to regional ADR events such as CIArb’s annual ADR Week to enhance knowledge access.
