What does it take to cross continents in pursuit of knowledge, purpose, and impact? For Professor Joram Mburu, it began with quiet dedication in a Nairobi classroom and led to a teaching position over 10,000 kilometres away, in the heart of South America. Now part of the academic staff at Universidad Politécnica Taiwán Paraguay (UPTP), the Kenyan professor brings more than just technical expertise. He brings a global perspective, and a passion for nurturing young minds through engineering.
Early engineering insights
Professor Mburu’s journey began in the classrooms of Strathmore School, where he developed a deep commitment to his studies. “I was somewhat of an outcast,” he admits with a chuckle. “I did not have many distractions. Most of my friends were similar to me, we were focused.” It was this determination that would later shape his future.
When it came time to choose a career, Mburu turned to his teacher for advice. “He gave me a few options: electrical engineering or civil engineering.” Though some relatives suggested economics, the decision was ultimately clear to him. “My country is still developing, so there is a lot of construction happening. Many told me not to do economics, too many people were already doing it. That is how I knew civil engineering was the way forward.”
Joram Mburu pursued his undergraduate degree at the University of Nairobi. Before even graduating, he gained hands-on experience working at a consulting firm for a year. After completing his studies, he joined a telecommunications tower construction company, supervising civil works on the ground. This early exposure laid the groundwork for what would soon become a global academic journey.
His next chapter took him to Taiwan, where he pursued postgraduate studies. Immersed in a new culture, he also took up a role as a teaching assistant, a position that brought him into contact with Paraguayan students for the first time.
“Before that, I only knew Paraguay from football,” he says, smiling. “I love watching the game, and I knew the Paraguayan team was really good.”
Crossing continents
After years in Taiwan, an opportunity emerged to teach in Paraguay. At first, Professor Mburu hesitated. “I wanted to go back home. I missed my family,” he shares. But with encouragement from his brother and late mother, he made the leap. “I had never been to this part of the world. It was a unique opportunity.”
He arrived in 2024 and was struck by the warmth of Paraguayan culture. “If you walk down the street, people nod and say hello. That is something special,” he reflects.
In one particularly emotional moment, he speaks about the impact of family and loss. “Unfortunately, I lost my mother in 2024. I always want to honour her, and remember what she did for me. My father and brother have also supported me immensely.”
His words are a powerful tribute to the love that has carried him through.
UPTP’s vision and international reach
As a lecturer at UPTP, Joram Mburu is excited about the institution’s bold ambitions. One of its most recent initiatives is the creation of a national research centre, still in its early stages. “It is not even three months old,” he says, “but it is a huge step.”
The centre will focus on four key fields: Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Biomedical Technology, Intelligent Systems, and Sustainable Energy. “It could be a game-changer for Paraguay,” he remarks. “This country is still developing, and such a centre could make a real difference.”
The university itself is the product of a fruitful partnership between Taiwan and Paraguay. Many professors are either Taiwanese or trained there, contributing to a high standard of education. In the coming years, the university plans to expand further with the construction of a new campus. As part of this collaboration, fellowships are now available for Paraguayan academics in 2025.
Joram Mburu: inspiring future engineers
Though still early in his academic career, Professor Mburu has his sights set on long-term goals. “I see myself as a junior professor, still learning,” he says modestly. “For now, I want to continue teaching, and begin some research.”
Yet his vision extends beyond the classroom. “Many things can happen in the future. But what I would want to do, of course, is to initiate projects that are helpful to the community,” he continues, specifically mentioning civil engineering projects that would expose students to the field.
To students eyeing the engineering path, Joram Mburu offers a thoughtful mix of encouragement and realism. “Yes, I would encourage them to join. But they must know it is a demanding field. It takes commitment and a lot of dedication.”
Despite the challenges, he insists it is an immensely rewarding profession, one that opens doors to further studies and international opportunities. “I am here because of the sacrifices made by my parents and brother. They’ve always believed in me. I owe everything to them.”
From Nairobi to Paraguay, Joram Mburu’s journey is a story of resilience, opportunity, and the profound impact of education and family. His path is a shining example of what happens when talent is nurtured and purpose is pursued, across continents, and with heart.
