Why Kenyans opt to study in Australia universities

Flip through the pages of a newspaper in a hotel in Gold Coast, the city in Australia’s state of Queensland, and you are taken on a mental flight straight back to Kenya.

The newspapers carry education stories and what springs into mind are reasons why most Kenyans love studying Down Under.

It’s no doubt that Kenya and Australia seemingly share symbiotic relationships –in terms of education. There are thousands of Kenyan students studying in Australian universities.

The lifestyle and quality of living in Australia is reportedly among the best in the world. In 2014, the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Survey found that four Australian cities ranked among the world’s top ten most liveable cities. Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Perth ranked first, fifth, seventh and ninth respectively.

Isaiah Kabira, the Kenyan High Commissioner in Australia, said the education programme in Australia is good.

Abigael Jeptum, a nursing student at the University of Western Australia, said she likes the academic programmes there.

“Australian courses are often shorter. Most Australian bachelor degree courses can be completed in three years and even less if the education provider works on a trimester system,” she said.

Jake Williamson, a student Griffith University, said they love the hospitality and general character of Kenyan students.

“These are very passionate people in class. They are quick to learn and friendly. We have quite a number of them in our school,” he said.

According to Department of Education and Training of Australia, the country has over 700,000 international students enrolled in local universities.