On Monday, 29th January 2024, Sofia University’s President, Prof. Yoshiaki, and esteemed colleagues, Former Socius of Japan Province Prof. Sanji Yamaoka and currently the Director of the Institute of Grief Care and Prof. Eri Yamazaki Sofia University Education Administrator, paid a visit to the proposed Hekima University Executive Director Dr Elias Mokua, SJ. Dr Mokua introduced pHU project to the team and discussion revolved around areas of collaboration between pHU and Sophia University.
In the afternoon, the Sophia University team signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Nairobi. They also visited Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Offices in Nairobi to discuss potential support for Sophia University and its African collaborators. Earlier that day, Prof Sanji Yamaoka, SJ, met with the pHU Directorate team to discuss progress and explore collaboration opportunities.
On Tuesday, 30th January the guests held a meeting with Hekima University College (HUC), Principal Rev. Fr. Marcel Uwineza, SJ, MBA, PhD, together with the faculty, and lecturers. Discussions revolved around possible collaborations, focusing on staff and student exchanges and curriculum innovation. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the delegation visited the Tertianship at Mwangaza Jesuit Spirituality Center, spreading a compelling message of collaboration for individuals to explore work opportunities in Japan.
On Wednesday, 31st January, unfolded with a spiritual touch. A liturgical mass at the theologate set the tone for the day. The entourage of Fr. Dr Odomaro, SJ, (pHU), Prof Sanji, SJ, (Sofia University), Gerald Kway, SJ (pHU) and Wanjiku Ngugi (pHU), then visited St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Parish in Kangemi. The delegation explored St. Joseph’s Development Programmes, including Uzima HIV/AIDS program, St. Joseph’s Technical Secondary School, Upendo Programme, and meeting the parish’s Catholic Women Association (CWA) group, witnessing the impactful community initiatives.
In the afternoon, the team visited Pedro Arrupe Community (PAC), and the discussions over the week-long visit offered promise for collaboration between Sophia University and pHU, addressing a variety of issues.
