According to Statista (2022), an estimated 553,000 Kenyans were living abroad, most of whom had traveled to pursue tertiary education.
Financial Fortune (2023) revealed that in the recent past, Kenyans were signing up for courses in foreign universities in record numbers.
The United States, Canada, and Australia repeatedly rank as the most preferred destinations for Kenyans traveling abroad for their undergraduate or postgraduate degree programs.
St Paul’s University graduates in 2017. The institution was ranked third nationally by uniRank, a leading international higher education directory. World Remit, an international money transfer platform, unveiled four issues Kenyans should consider before pursuing education abroad in a report dated January 24, 2023.
Culture
When you travel to a foreign country, the first thing that will hit you is culture shock.
If you are not psychologically prepared to experience a new culture, it will negatively affect how you perform in your studies.
Culture is far-reaching and includes social aspects like religion, morality, and behavioral expectations.
Language
When moving to a non-English speaking country, most Kenyans have to learn a new language altogether.
If you are not quick to learn a new language, it will affect how you adapt to the new country.
It is a huge challenge if the foreign language is regarded the country’s national language used in teaching and issuing instructions at the institution.
Cost of living
With many Kenyans traveling to Canada, the US, the UK, and Australia for higher education, the cost of living is a key factor to consider.
Before traveling outside the country, carry out research on the cost of living in your host country.
The research will show you where you need to take a job while studying and if you are on a scholarship, it will help you know if your stipend is enough.
“It is important to check local pages to determine what costs are expected in terms of local residency, wages, transport, and healthcare.
“Comparison sites and educational pages dedicated to migration can ensure you get the best value for money,” the study advises.
Healthcare Options
Healthcare in Western countries is expensive and can drain your meager finances if you are studying and lack full-time employment.
“Research health insurance options that are available and if there are health benefits migrants can access.
“Research extensively what your healthcare options are and how your residence or citizenship status affects your options,” World Remit states in the report.
Jubilee party Vice Chair David Murathe , his son David Wakairu (centre) with his parents during his graduation ceremony in London on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.
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