INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana University Indianapolis Fairbanks School of Public Health has strengthened its partnership with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) to advance healthcare and public health outcomes in Kenya. This collaboration, launched with a Memorandum of Intent on May 15, 2024, is already driving efforts in maternal and child health, cancer prevention, digital health and infectious disease management.
Advancing public health through collaboration
In the past eight months, the partnership has launched several joint initiatives aimed at improving healthcare delivery and public health research in Kenya:
- Maternal and child health innovation: A joint pilot project on the microbiological assessment of human donor breastmilk in Kenya was launched in collaboration with Pumwani Maternity Hospital. This study will inform efforts to improve the safety and accessibility of donor milk for vulnerable infants.
- Neonatal resuscitation training: Healthcare providers at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital participated in hands-on neonatal resuscitation training to enhance their ability to respond to newborn emergencies. This effort directly supports Kenya’s goals of reducing neonatal mortality rates.
- Medical device innovation: The Fairbanks School delivered revised prototypes of the patented NeoWarm biomedical device to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital. This wearable sensor-enabled carrier is designed to help facilitate kangaroo mother care and reduce the risk of low body temperature among premature and low birth weight.
- Capacity-building in cancer care: Building on a successful initial launch in May 2024, and now with technical support from the American Cancer Society, JKUAT is set to become an ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) Superhub for East Africa. This initiative will expand access to expert training for healthcare professionals and community stakeholders, with the first virtual session scheduled for March 2025.
A commitment to long-term impact
“This partnership is a testament to the power of international collaboration in advancing public health,” said Sherri Bucher, PhD, associate professor and chair of community and global health at the Fairbanks School. “By leveraging the expertise of both institutions, we are implementing sustainable, evidence-based solutions that directly impact healthcare outcomes in Kenya and beyond.”
Nir Menachemi, PhD, professor and dean of the Fairbanks School, emphasized the alignment with IU’s broader global engagement goals: “Our work with JKUAT reflects Indiana University’s commitment to transformative research, student success and global service. These initiatives will not only drive meaningful change in Kenya but also contribute to global health innovation.”
As this collaboration continues to grow, FSPH and JKUAT remain dedicated to expanding research, educational exchange programs, and healthcare training opportunities. By fostering strong international partnerships, the institutions are working toward sustainable solutions that address pressing public health challenges in Kenya and beyond.