Multimedia University of Kenya (MMU) is eyeing a strategic partnership in the areas of creative arts, film, and entertainment training following high-level talks with Roberts Colson & Company, a global professional services firm specializing in strategic growth solutions.
The meeting, held at the university, was led by MMU Chairman of Council, Dr. Albert Kochei, and brought together other senior university leaders and representatives from Roberts Colson & Company, alongside local industry partners.
Dr. Kochei described the engagement as a “great milestone” for the institution, aligning with MMU’s motto: Riding on Technology, Inspiring Innovation.
“We are keen to engage like-minded institutions and companies to deepen collaboration and partnerships in areas we want to pursue,” he said. “One of our priority faculties is the Faculty of Media and Communication, where we envision MMU becoming the home of creative arts, film, and entertainment.”
Dr. Kochei revealed that the university is exploring possible exchange programs with global leaders in the entertainment industry — particularly from Hollywood — to build capacity among faculty and students. The initiative aims to provide hands-on training in film production, positioning MMU as a key player in Kenya’s growing creative economy, a sector championed by President William Ruto.
Curtiss Stancil, Chief Growth Officer at Roberts Colson & Company, emphasized the firm’s interest in opening up international opportunities for MMU students.
“Our purpose today was to look at strategic partnerships that can expose students to accelerated careers in communication, film, TV, and other creative industries,” Stancil said, adding that they are looking forward to continuing the dialogue with MMU.
Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Research and Innovation Prof. Livingstone Ngoo noted that the collaboration could tap into the university’s rich pool of talent in performing and visual arts, particularly among students with a mature, professional approach to film and animation.
“Film is a powerful way to entertain, inform, and create economic opportunities,” he said, recalling his own inspiration from the classic comedy Coming to America. “Our students have the vision and creativity to produce content that can sell globally.”
On his part, Dean, Faculty of Media and Communication, Dr. Isaac Mutwiri, highlighted the long-term benefits of such partnerships, pointing out that specialized equipment and technical expertise shared by Hollywood collaborators would remain within the university.
“Once you get the first production on board, most of the equipment and skills transferred by the professionals will stay with us,” he said, adding that if successful, the collaboration will not only transform MMU into a regional hub for creative arts and media training, but will also bridge the gap between Kenyan creative talent and global media opportunities, positioning MMU graduates for success on the world stage.
Also in the meeting was Roberts Colson & Company President and CEO Dr. Charles Oduor, Minerock Ltd Director Dr. Kipkirui Langat, KNCCI Diaspora & Investment Chairman Simon Nyagah, and Minerock advocate Mr. Leonard Sonuiya.
By Nicanor Ndiege