Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has entered into discussions with the Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) on possible areas of research collaborations that would boost the Country’s agricultural sustainability and development.
The collaboration talks were initiated Thursday, November 18, 2021, when the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi paid a courtesy on the Institution’s Director General, Dr. Eliud Kiplimo Kireger at the KALRO head offices in Westlands, Nairobi.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Ngumi said JKUAT is keen on partnering with renowned research institutions which she noted, would be beneficial to both institutions through exchange of invaluable ideas, expertise and experiences.
“As a University we pride ourselves in fostering collaborations with like-minded institutions that will enhance the University’s vision to become a research center of excellence,” said Prof. Ngumi.
In a bid to combat the shortage of resources brought about by Covid-19, the Vice Chancellor was confident that through the partnership, the University would be able to churn out innovations that are in line with the market demands. However, she noted, it was only through concerted effort that the desired impact of research would be achieved.
On his part, Dr. Kireger who expressed his willingness to partner with JKUAT stated that industry and academia collaboration would provide a better platform for sharing research ideas.
“Engaging with institutions of higher learning is critical to our organization’s objectives of providing training and information to the local farmer. We believe such a move can revolutionize the agricultural sector,” said Dr. Kireger.
The Director General was confident that the collaboration between JKUAT and KALRO will be fruitful, citing that research funders were readily available to support collaborative projects between learning and research institutions.
Source: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology