China University of Petroleum has entered into a partnership with Mount Kenya University (MKU) on training of experts in the oil industry.

The deal of the partnership was signed on Sunday by Chairman of MKU, professor Simon Gicharu and Dr. Fengchi Luan, Dean, College of International Education at China University of Petroleum.

Through the deal, the two higher learning institutions will engage in students exchange so as to develop joint scientific and technological research projects.

Gicharu said the purpose of the partnership is to develop academic cooperation on the basis of equality and reciprocity and to promote relations and mutual understandings between both universities.

"This deal spells a bright future for our students and faculty. Kenya, and indeed Africa is replete with natural resources but lacks enough manpower to tap these resources," Gicharu said.

The two institutions will jointly promote and develop academic cooperation, exchange teaching staff and research personnel.

"Empowering local communities by improving the knowledge base has always been one of our key drivers," said MKU Vice-Chancellor Stanley Waudo.

China University of Petroleum is considered to be the best higher education institution in petroleum related studies in China. The university was founded in 1953, as Beijing Petroleum Institute.