If you have questions about this program, email the program leader listed below.

Aviation Business and Cultural Exposure to East Africa

Program Details

The arrangements for the travel, housing, meals, excursions and course content of this program have been made by the leader. Questions about this program can only be answered by the program leader listed below.
Program Type Departmental
Program Location Nairobi, Kenya
Course # SA 10901
Duration Summer
Upcoming Program Dates
Summer 2026 05/13/26 to 05/29/26

Program Leader

Name Caroline Marete
Email cmarete@purdue.edu
Click here to enroll in this program!
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice

Program Description

This study abroad program aims to provide aviation students exposure to the global aviation business and cultural experience in the East African country, Kenya. Kenya was selected for its rapidly growing air travel industry and rich culture. The aviation industry is global in its nature. An understanding of the regulations and starandard that govern differnet states is essential for aviation student. Kenya is home to several aviation organizations ranging from large publicly owned companies like the national carrier Kenya Airways, to small flights schools and other fixed base operators (FBOs) at the small general airports, that all contribute to Kenya's $140 billion economy. Students will tour and interract with professionals at various aviation businesses like the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Wilson Airport (General & Commerical Aviation), Penial Air Charters, Women in Aviation - Kenya Chapter, and others. The experience will be capped with a three day tour to the Maasi Mara National Reserve, one of Kenya's iconic game reserve. In addition, students will also interact will locals at the Maasai Market located in the heart of  Nairobi City. This SA will provide a holistic learning and cultural experience that bring be ingarined in your memories for a long time. Join us!

Tentative Program Itinerary

  • Wednesday, May 13th- Depart U.S. for Nairobi, Kenya
  • Thursday, May 14th- Arrive in Nairobi
  • Friday, May 15th- EDU Africa orientation, basic Swahili language lesson, welcome dinner
  • Saturday, May 16th- Intro and engagement with Women in Aviation International, Ocean Sole
  • Sunday, May 17th- Nairobi National Park, David Sheldrick Orphanage, Giraffe Center, academic time
  • Monday, May 18th- Kenya Civil Aviation Authority
  • Tuesday, May 19th- Industry visits: Kenya Airways & Jambo Jet, reflection session
  • Wednesday, May 20th- Fahari Aviation Center, Maasai Market experience
  • Thursday, May 21st- Penial Air Charters, academic time
  • Friday, May 22nd- University visit, reflection session
  • Saturday, May 23rd- Kenya School of Flying-Wilson Airport
  • Sunday, May 24th- Nairobi National Museum and cultural visit TBD
  • Monday, May 25th- Safari starts, transit to Maasai Mara National Reserve, evening Maasai cultural experience
  • Tuesday, May 26th- Morning & evening game drives, Bush breakfast, beading workshop, Enjoolata Awareness
  • Wednesday, May 27th- Return to Nairobi, final reflection session
  • Thursday, May 28th- Gathoni Tea Farm and Sensory Garden, farewell meal, evening flight departure 

Please contact the program leader, Caroline Marete (cmarete@purdue.edu), for more information.

Academic Credit

3 credits, course AT 45300

Eligibility

Students applying for this program must be in good standing at Purdue University. All Purdue University students are welcome, but the program content aligns particularly well with students from the the Polytechnic Institute or the College of Engineering. Students will be required to write a short essay (500-700 words) by responding to three prompt questions expressing their interest in the program followed by a one on one interview with the program lead (s).

Program Cost

Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.

Estimated cost $4,000 (round-trip airfare is not included)

This includes lodging, insurance, in-country transportation, admission to activities and events, and all meals. Participants will arrange and purchase their own airfare to and from Nairobi, which provides flexibility for extended travel before or after the program.

This program is eligible for study abroad scholarship funding.  Purdue Global Leaps Short Term Scholarship

This program is also eligible for funding through the Office of Experiential Education Experiential Education Scholarship

Application Deadline

This program can accommodate 12-16 students. Applications are reviewed on a first come-first served basis. Admission will be stopped once the program is full. Apply by January 1, 2026 for priority consideration.    

Financial Aid

Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should

NOTE:  Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad.  Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.

Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.