The President of Jamhuriya University of Science and Technology (JUST), Eng. Abdirizak Warsame Abdulle, participated in the East Africa Hub Convening 2026, organized by The Education Collaborative in Nairobi, Kenya, from 1–2 October 2026. Hosted by United States International University–Africa (USIU-Africa) at Safari Park Hotel, the convening brought together university leaders and higher education stakeholders from across East Africa to exchange experiences, discuss emerging priorities, and explore practical approaches to improving student outcomes.

The convening was held under the theme, (Students First: Advancing Sustainable, Tech-Enabled Campuses for Equitable and Transformative Student Outcomes). Throughout the two-day convening, participants engaged in discussions focused on placing students at the center of university development and ensuring that academic and support services respond effectively to their evolving needs.

Key areas of discussion included student wellbeing, disability inclusion, artificial intelligence, blended and online learning, career services, digital teaching, student advising, and institutional transformation. Participants also explored practical ways to leverage technology to enhance learning, career development, student support, and access to university services. The programme featured an AI Innovations Showcase, as well as sessions on blended and online learning design, technology-enabled career services, digital-age pedagogy, and smart student advising.

As part of the programme, the JUST delegation visited USIU-Africa and AEDT, gaining valuable insights into diverse approaches to institutional development, innovation, and higher education practices. The delegation also engaged with representatives from Riara University, Strathmore University, Rwanda Polytechnic, and UTB to explore potential areas of collaboration and knowledge exchange, including innovation, career services, research, online learning, academic programmes, and student development. These engagements provided valuable opportunities for JUST to learn from regional institutions and identify practices that can contribute to the University’s continued institutional advancement.

JUST’s participation in the East Africa Hub Convening 2026 reflects the University’s continued commitment to regional engagement, academic excellence, innovation, digital transformation, research, and student-centered education. The convening provided a valuable platform for strengthening relationships with leading higher education institutions and identifying practical opportunities for institutional collaboration. It also reinforced the importance of technology, innovation, and responsive academic and student-support systems in preparing graduates for an increasingly digital and competitive world.

Following the convening, JUST will continue strengthening regional partnerships and advancing initiatives in artificial intelligence, career development, online education, and employability. Through these efforts, the University remains committed to innovation, digital transformation, and improved student outcomes.