On Aug 23, 2019, two QES Scholars, Dr. Edward Kariuki and Julie Oyoo, landed in Charlottetown. Their arrival date was ideal because it allowed for time prior to the fall semester to attend to logistical issues, such as getting a SIN#, bank account, university card key access, computer and printing access and cell phone package, along with volunteering on farms to understand Canadian agriculture, and getting accustomed to their new accommodations, shopping options and university setting. They were thrilled to have the opportunity to come to Canada to further their education and experience another culture.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to quickly pivot to online courses, and flew back to Kenya to be with their families, taking their courses from Kenya. That was a smart move because within weeks, Kenya closed its borders.
Fortunately, with good cell and online communications, they could conduct their research in Kenya, after a few delays while the COVID-19 dust settled.
Julie finished her thesis in 2022, while Edward continued to work part-time on his thesis through 2022.