Tangaza University in Kenya proudly participates in the Erasmus exchange program each year, facilitating enriching exchanges for students and staff with universities around the globe. One notable partnership is with the Universitat Politècnica de Valencia (UPV) for the Erasmus+ exchange program. Last academic year, this collaboration saw two brilliant students, Peris Waithera Mwangi from the Institute of Social Transformation (IST) and Alban Otieno from the School of Education, embark on an unforgettable journey.
Peris and Alban eagerly shared how the Erasmus program profoundly transformed their lives, expressing heartfelt gratitude to IST for this incredible opportunity.
Transformation through the Erasmus Program
A year ago, Peris and Alban joined the exchange program and experienced a life-changing adventure. “Living and studying in Spain exposed me to diverse cultural dynamics, enriching my intercultural competence and broadening my understanding of global perspectives,” shared Peris. The program was a catalyst for personal development and sparked new aspirations.
“This exchange program significantly influenced my aspirations and broadened my worldview. I’ve been equipped with global competencies and a deeper understanding of work environments,” added Alban Otieno. He acknowledged that the experience brought both growth and challenges, which are invaluable for students at the School of Education. Adapting to a new education system, overcoming language barriers, and embracing cultural differences taught him resilience, adaptability, and the importance of embracing change.
Miss Peris also highlighted the rigorous academic environment at UPV as a significant challenge that inspired her deeply. “I was touched by how UPV enlightened me to adopt new learning methodologies and collaborative approaches, significantly enhancing my research skills,” she reflected.
As a social researcher, this exchange was invaluable to Peris. “It honed my ability to analyze and adapt to complex social environments—skills critical for addressing global challenges in sustainable human development. The exposure to new academic frameworks and diverse perspectives enriched my understanding of fostering resilience and inclusivity in various contexts,” she emphasized.
Cultural Awareness and Immersion
Both Waithera and Otieno attested to the exchange program’s role in fostering cultural awareness and immersion. From navigating the Spanish transport system to engaging with the local community and learning new languages, they gained firsthand insights into a different way of life and culture. Waithera recounted a unique experience with La Dana, a storm that caused extensive damage in the Valencian community. “I had learned about La Dana in my Adaptation to Climate Change class, and experiencing it in reality was eye-opening,” she explained.
Putting Theory into Reality
Miss Waithera adapted her theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, witnessing how the local community responds to extreme weather events—a perspective closely aligned with her interest in sustainable development. Interacting with locals and fellow internationals opened her eyes to diverse traditions and fostered meaningful connections.
Living in Valencia offered Otieno the unique opportunity to immerse himself in Spanish culture. He particularly valued the remote exchange program with students from Poland and Finland, which enhanced his intercultural communication skills and provided valuable perspectives on global collaboration.
Conclusion
The Erasmus+ exchange program with UPV is a journey of learning, growth, and discovery. Students at Tangaza University should embrace such opportunities as they open doors to new perspectives and endless possibilities. This remarkable chapter not only reinforced their commitment to sustainable human development but also equipped them with the skills and insights to make a meaningful impact in their fields. The end goal is to pursue opportunities that require collaboration across cultures and disciplines, crafting a future where global citizens thrive.
