Virtual Surgery Training Transforms Medical Education

Egerton University has introduced virtual reality surgical training through a partnership with the Kenya Education Network (KENET). The initiative connects medical students to surgeons around the world, enabling them to observe live and recorded procedures in 360-degree VR. Integrated with the Proximie platform, the program allows students to learn from global experts, reducing reliance on cadavers and improving access to advanced training tools.

Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage said the system reduces surgical errors and accelerates skill development by allowing students to practice before operating. The training platform is part of KENET’s Teaching Hospitals Connectivity Initiative and uses internet-based tools for low-cost, scalable access. Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital is among the local facilities adopting Proximie, already used in over 800 hospitals worldwide.

The technology enables broader knowledge sharing and collaboration across borders, providing a new model for surgical education in Kenya.