Piloting Kenya’s First Master’s Program in Technical Communication: Digital Innovation, Intercultural Challenges, and Lessons for Higher Education in the Global South

Abstract

About the case: This case study examines the curriculum development and pilot phase of Kenya’s first master’s program in technical communication, at Pwani University, developed with Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (Germany). The pilot tested a hybrid, mostly online, curriculum aimed at introducing applied technical communication education in Kenya’s traditionally theory-based higher education system. Situating the case: Kenya’s higher education system, shaped by its colonial legacy, remains theory-focused despite economic growth and digital expansion. National strategies prioritize curricular modernization for job-ready skills. Situated within broader technical and professional communication scholarship and international efforts, the new master’s program addresses this goal through digital, practice-oriented education with international instructors. Methods/approach: Standardized online surveys collected quantitative and qualitative feedback through two evaluations: a student-only survey on course contents, and a general survey with students and instructors after the first semester, focusing on organization, virtual learning environment, social/technical aspects, international context, motivation, practice-oriented content, and challenges/improvements. Results/discussion: Students valued practice-oriented teaching, international instructors, and flexible formats, but faced unstable internet, device access issues, and limited peer interaction. Instructors noted challenges engaging students online and managing coordination within an international, rotating teaching team. Conclusion: The pilot demonstrated feasibility and strong demand while revealing intersectional technical, social, and cultural barriers. Planned improvements for the full master’s program include enhanced technical support, equipment loans, in-person onboarding, and local capacity building. This pilot provides transferable insights into introducing a new discipline in the Global South while implementing digital, practice-oriented education in a theory-oriented environment, emphasizing that sustainable success requires technological infrastructure, holistic support, and collaborative adaptation.