Belgian Student Joins Egerton University on International Internship Program IASTE
Lisa Wilmes, a student from Belgium, recently embarked on an exciting internship at Egerton University's Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. Arriving on August 3, 2024, Lisa joined the university under the prestigious International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) programme, which fosters global opportunities for technical students.
Prof. Charles M'erimba, Director of Linkages and Collaboration at Egerton, welcomed Lisa warmly and encouraged her to make the most of the university’s diverse learning environment. He urged her to explore sections beyond her core area of Human Nutrition, as Egerton offers vast experiences that could enrich her knowledge.
"We regularly receive students on internship through this programme. We accommodate them, and they receive a stipend, which helps them settle on campus," Prof. M'erimba explained. He also noted that IAESTE has provided unique opportunities for both Egerton students and international participants.
Egerton University joined the IAESTE network in 2021, opening doors for its students to access global internship opportunities. The university's Directorate of Linkages and Collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring that students can take advantage of these placements, which provide exposure to international work cultures and technical skills. Through an online portal, Egerton students can apply to over 100 countries for internships that offer hands-on experience in various industries.
IAESTE, a global non-governmental and non-profit organisation, holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Affiliated with both the UN Department of Public Information and UNESCO, IAESTE benefits students, employers, and universities alike. By offering paid internships, the programme allows students to gain practical experience while developing cross-cultural skills. Employers, in turn, get access to talented international interns who bring fresh perspectives to their work environments.
“Living and working abroad for up to a year gives students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture in ways they could never experience during a brief holiday,” remarked Ms. Rhoda Afandi, the programme coordinator at Egerton University. “Not only do they experience the host country’s culture, but they also meet IAESTE interns from across the globe, creating a truly international experience.”
According to Rhoda, IAESTE interns, such as Lisa, are well-supported throughout their stay at Egerton. “We ensure that their stipends are disbursed on time, and we provide them with suitable accommodation,” she stated. For outgoing Egerton students, the process is streamlined online. “Our students who go out on internships follow a clear process. We guide them from registration, verify their applications, and ensure they meet the necessary qualifications,” Rhoda explained.
Once a student is registered in the system, they can view available internship offers. All interactions, from application to nomination, are handled through the platform. Employers then assess the applicants based on their suitability, with some conducting interviews, while others make decisions based on submitted documents alone.
However, students are responsible for securing their own travel documents, in coordination with both the employer and the host country.
For Lisa, Egerton University provided a furnished house, making her stay comfortable and helping her focus on her internship. She is not only gaining technical experience in Human Nutrition but also embracing the cultural exchange that comes with living and working in Kenya.
Recently, Lisa was taken on an expedition by Clinton Kashu, President of the Egerton University IAESTE Chapter. This trip gave her a chance to explore the rich culture and natural beauty surrounding the university, enhancing her experience even further.
The IAESTE programme at Egerton University continues to foster global collaboration and technical exchange, giving students like Lisa the opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally. By taking part in this groundbreaking programme, students gain invaluable international exposure, helping them build the foundation for successful careers in their respective fields.
