Strathmore University and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators – Kenya Branch (CIArb) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 26th April 2021. At the signing ceremony, CIArb was represented by its Chairman, Mr. Sam Nderitu, the Vice-Chairman, Dr. Willy Mutubwa, and the Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Chebett Koske. The University was represented by the Strathmore Law School Dean, Dr. Peter Kwenjera and Dr. Francis Kariuki, Director, Strathmore Dispute Resolution Centre. The MOU provides the framework for collaboration between the parties in promoting access to justice through training and certification in different forms of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (ADR).

Through this collaboration the two institutions will work out modalities for certifying students who take the CIArb accredited courses at undergraduate and postgraduate programs as mediators, adjudicators or arbitrators. Such students will be admitted into the membership of the CIArb , and therefore, be eligible to be appointed by parties as Arbitrators, Mediators or Adjudicators in disputes and/or by CIArb, in accordance with its policies on appointment of neutrals.

CIArb shall offer mentorship and/or internship opportunities for SU students interested in ADR at the Institute and/or facilitate students undertaking any of the courses offered under this MOU, placement opportunities with its experienced Arbitrators, Mediators or Adjudicators.

Additionally, the parties jointly agreed to organize joint conferences, moot courts, webinars, seminars and other organised interactions in the areas of common interest.

This article was written by Francis Kariuki, Director, Strathmore Dispute Resolution Centre.