Siaya: The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology blue economy research hub is finally ready for utilization by researchers, the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Emily Akuno, has revealed.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the handing over of the Sh 580 million research facility, Prof. Akuno disclosed that the construction was fully funded by the national government after it was commissioned by President William Ruto in January 2023. Prof. Akuno encouraged researchers from Kenya and across the region to utilize the hub for research and innovations aimed at creating knowledge and improving human lives.
The blue economy research hub, located in Miyandhe village, Siaya County, approximately 20 km from Bondo town, features state-of-the-art laboratories, conference rooms, and accommodation facilities. Prof. Akuno mentioned that the facility will welcome scientific and social researchers and also offer molecular research services to enhance disease surveillance efforts in the region.
Prof. Akuno expressed her satisfaction with the facility’s readiness for use, stating, “We have a good facility here in a serene environment that researchers from the country and the entire region can make use of to come up with innovations and technologies that improve lives.” She added that the laboratories are equipped with modern equipment to support molecular research for various health facilities and assist the government’s disease outbreak surveillance.
The university donor urged the state department of science research and innovation to invest in the facility by providing more equipment to enhance its operations. “Currently the hub is equipped courtesy of the Joost Vlir-IUC project, but we want to call on the State Department of Science Research and Innovation to hold our hands by investing in this facility for it to operate optimally,” Akuno stated.
Prof. Akuno also revealed that contracts for two other projects initiated at the institution in 2019 have been terminated to allow for new contractors. These projects include a 500-student capacity tuition block at Achego campus and the university administration block at the main campus. She noted that the government plans to release funds this financial year to complete the tuition block, while the administration block will face delays after the contractor’s passing led to the contract’s termination.
