Advancing Physiotherapy Education in Kenya: Lessons from Sustainable International Academic Collaboration
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| Title: | Advancing Physiotherapy Education in Kenya: Lessons from Sustainable International Academic Collaboration |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Shala Cunningham (ORCID |
| Source: | Higher Education Quarterly. 2026 80(1). |
| Availability: | Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 8 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Foreign Countries, Physical Therapy, Allied Health Personnel, Allied Health Occupations Education, International Programs, College Faculty, Program Effectiveness, Cultural Awareness, Sustainability, Barriers, Interpersonal Communication, Partnerships in Education, Curriculum Development, College Role, Administrator Role |
| Geographic Terms: | Kenya |
| DOI: | 10.1111/hequ.70087 |
| ISSN: | 0951-5224 1468-2273 |
| Abstract: | Access to rehabilitation in low- and middle-income countries is limited by workforce shortages, inadequate training and instability. In 2018, AMREF International University (AMIU) partnered with the Jackson Clinics Foundation, based in the United States, to create a programme advancing physiotherapy training in Kenya from a diploma to a bachelor's degree. The first cohort graduated in 2022, with over 100 graduates to date. This qualitative study explored the characteristics of a successful international partnership in advancing physiotherapy education. Interviews were conducted with six faculty members and four administrators, analysed using thematic analysis. Key factors for success included understanding local culture, long-term commitment and transitioning activities to AMIU for sustainability. Challenges included communication issues and tuition costs. The study highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity, effective communication and sustained collaboration for successful international academic partnerships. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1494125 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Access to rehabilitation in low- and middle-income countries is limited by workforce shortages, inadequate training and instability. In 2018, AMREF International University (AMIU) partnered with the Jackson Clinics Foundation, based in the United States, to create a programme advancing physiotherapy training in Kenya from a diploma to a bachelor's degree. The first cohort graduated in 2022, with over 100 graduates to date. This qualitative study explored the characteristics of a successful international partnership in advancing physiotherapy education. Interviews were conducted with six faculty members and four administrators, analysed using thematic analysis. Key factors for success included understanding local culture, long-term commitment and transitioning activities to AMIU for sustainability. Challenges included communication issues and tuition costs. The study highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity, effective communication and sustained collaboration for successful international academic partnerships. |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 0951-5224 1468-2273 |
| DOI: | 10.1111/hequ.70087 |
