How can development projects contribute to an institution’s internationalization strategy? Three post-secondary institutions will provide Canadian perspectives on international engagement using the case study of an on-going project in Kenya. Speakers from Marine Institute, Nova Scotia Community College, and Seneca College speak to how and why Canadian institutions pursue international projects, strategic decision making, implementation challenges, and innovative approaches. To truly internationalize Canadian institutions must be active in regions that are hubs of global developments. After the Kenyan Government identified Blue Economy as a strategic development priority the east Africa nation quickly became a focus of geopolitical engagement in Blue Economy.  Kenya sits on the eastern shores of Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. While it is Africa’s biggest source of inland fish production, the industry needs to be further professionalized to create economic opportunities and food security for vulnerable communities. The TVET-19 project, funded by the Mastercard Foundation focused on fisheries/aquaculture, aims to leverage Canadian and Kenyan knowledge and expertise to address opportunities for growth.

The 3-year project involves a partnership between the three Canadian and two Kenyan institutions (Kisumu National Polytechnic, and Mawego Technical Training Institute). It utilizes a partner-driven approach, prioritizing stakeholder engagement and consultation throughout the life of the project.