Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) continues to foster international partnerships through innovative cultural and entrepreneurial collaborations. A key initiative under the Partnerships, Research, and Innovation (PRI) Office, led by Prof. Rahma Udu, and coordinated by Mr. Khamisi Juma Mkoka and Ms. Muzny Muses, has brought remarkable progress in strengthening ties with Indonesia through the promotion of Indonesian martial art Pencak Silat.
Since the cultural launch of Pencak Silat at TUM, the university has built strong and meaningful relationships with the Indonesian Embassy and leading Indonesian companies such as Salim Wazaran Kenya Company Limited (Indomie). In recognition of TUM’s efforts, the university was officially awarded the Pencak Silat flag in 2023, marking it as the Coastal Region Centre for Pencak Silat training. This milestone was achieved through the leadership of Mr. Khamisi Juma Mkoka, who serves as the Coast Region Chairman and the trainer of the TUM student martial arts team. Over the past two years, the team has represented TUM with distinction in various championships, showcasing both skill and discipline.
Further strengthening this collaboration, Indomie Kenya (SAWAKE), the only Indonesian noodle brand serving East and Central Africa, has generously supported the Pencak Silat initiative by empowering students who are part of the Pencak Silat team. The company donated two fully equipped mobile trolleys to enable these students to start selling instant noodles within the university. This venture is part of a broader Income Generating Activity (IGA), aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship and creating self-employment opportunities for student athletes.
On 26th June 2025, Mr. Victor Maina, the Regional Sales Manager for the Coast Region, visited TUM to hand over the donation officially. Five students from the Pencak Silat team have been selected as the first group of beneficiaries. During his visit, Mr. Maina emphasized that this donation marks just the beginning of a growing partnership. He committed to supplying an initial stock of Indomie noodles, providing branded merchandise, offering access to discounted products, and connecting students to platforms where they can sell and expand their small businesses.
The Dean of Students, Mr. Joel O. Awino, expressed deep gratitude to Indomie for its generous support, noting the vital role such opportunities play in developing well-rounded, enterprising graduates. He praised the initiative for giving students practical experience in business and enhancing their capacity for self-reliance.
This initiative stands as a testament to TUM’s dedication to global engagement, cultural appreciation, and student empowerment through strategic partnerships and innovative programming.
