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On 21st April 2022, Daystar University (DU) signed a three-year renewable Memorandum of Understanding with Universite Lumiere de Bujumbura Burundi (Burundi Light University) that will see both institutions collaborate in identified areas of mutual interest.

The MOU was signed by ULBu  Rector (Vice-Chancellor) Dr. Yves Ndayikunda and Daystar University Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. Muturi Wachira, in the witness of those present.  The MOU signing was the culmination of discussions held between both institutions since January 2020 when Daystar University visited five faith-based universities in Burundi, among them ULBu, to seek partnership and collaboration.  The MOU identifies the following areas for possible collaboration based on the needs of the partner institutions:

· Exchange of graduate students (Master and PhD);

· Exchange of faculty and staff members;

· Online programs and faculty support;

· Short and long courses;

· Joint research;

· Joint application to call for opportunities and consultancy activities;

· Participation in seminars and academic meetings;

· Exchange of academic materials and other information;

· Special short-term academic programs and projects;

· Any other opportunity that might be beneficial to both parties. 

In executing the MOU, both institutions will identify students, faculty and staff seeking to participate in available academic and non-academic opportunities.  According to the MOU, all exchange students will be required to register and pay tuition and other required fees at their home institution before travelling to the host institution. They will also cover their transportation cost to and from the host institution, room and boarding expenses; textbook, clothing, and personal expenses; health insurance and risk management fee; Passport and visa costs, and any other debts incurred during the course of the exchange program.

Students wishing to participate in the exchange program will apply for any academic program offered at the host institution as a full-time student for maximum one semester, non-degree or unclassified student at the appropriate level of study as will be determined by the host institution.

Faculty and Administrative personnel participating the Exchange program will participate in research, teaching and consultations for specified periods of time ranging from a few days to a semester, a summer session, or an academic year. Faculty members under this program will be provided with access to the libraries, related offices and laboratories that are considered relevant to the nature of their work.

Representing Daystar University at the MOU signing ceremony was Vice-Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro who is currently in the US, the Ag. Vice Chancellor Prof. Muturi Wachira, the Director of Academic Affairs Prof. Samuel Muriithi, the Director of Research and Graduate Studies Sr. Prof. Agnes Lucy Lando, the Director of Online, Distance and Electronic Learning (ODeL) Dr. Caroline Ayuya, and the Corporate Affairs and Marketing Manager Mrs. Damaris Kimilu. 

Daystar University (DU) signs a three-year renewable Memorandum of Understanding with Universite Lumiere de Bujumbura Burundi - On 21st April 2022

On the other hand, Universite Lumiere de Bujumbura Burundi was represented by the Rector Dr. Yves Ndayikunda, a PhD graduate of Daystar University, Deputy Rector in charge of Cooperation and Development Dr. Deogratias Nimpagaritse, the Dean of Social Sciences Mr. Hamisi Hamim, Secretary General of E-Learning Mr. Rutomera Pierre Claver.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Daystar University Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro called on the implementing parties to lift the value system of both institutions by looking at the higher purpose and deeper concern that will create an interdependence of our universities.

Giving an example, Prof. Ayiro noted, “I want to add value by meeting Senate and faculty when I visit ULBu.” 

Dr. Yves Ndayikunda expressed hope that the DU/ULBu collaboration will set a good example for other universities in East Africa and the rest of Africa.