The Kenya Agricultural Student Association (KASA) was officially launched on March 27, 2024 at Egerton University's Main Campus in Njoro The event marked a significant milestone in the University's commitment to nurturing agricultural talent and fostering innovation in the field.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage's speech, delivered by the Principal of Nakuru City Campus, Prof. Joshua Ogendo, highlighted Egerton's reputation as a leading institution in agriculture. Additionally, he underscored the University's notable role in hosting the African Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Agriculture and Agribusiness (CESAAM), TAGDev, and COELIB.
Prof. Joshua Ogendo the Principal of Nakuru City Campus College together with the Kenya Agricultural Student Association National Chair Mr Arthur Muiruri after launching the Association at Main Campus in Njoro on March 27, 2024.
The launch of KASA symbolizes Egerton University's dedication to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders. Through this association, students from diverse backgrounds across Kenya now have a platform to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas. Prof. Ogendo emphasized the association's motto, "to innovate, cultivate, and sustain," urging students to channel their expertise toward creating transformative changes in their communities. He also stressed the significance of integrating artificial intelligence into agricultural practices, recognizing its potential to revolutionize the sector.
Organized by the Faculty of Agriculture under the Dean, Prof. Patience Mshenga, the launch witnessed participation from various universities, including the University of Nairobi, Lukenya University, Murang’a University, University of Kabianga, Kabarak University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, South Eastern Kenya University and the host Egerton University.
In her address, Prof. Mshenga highlighted the need for supportive policies and a skilled workforce to drive Kenya's agricultural sector forward, emphasizing the potential economic benefits. She reaffirmed Egerton's commitment to supporting KASA's activities and urged its members to proactively address challenges in the agricultural field.
Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, the Registrar of Academic Affairs, commended the establishment of KASA at Egerton and encouraged its officials to serve as career ambassadors for agricultural programmes.
Other faculty members present were Prof. Paul Kimurto, the Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization, Prof. Joyce Lelei, Chair of the Department of Crops, Horticulture, and Soils and Dr Benard Karanja.
Notable guests were Prof. Moses Nyangito Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Nairobi, Esther Muli from Lukenya University and Sarah Njoroge, founder of Agriculture Made Attractive. Ms Njoroge delivered an inspiring presentation on leveraging social media for agricultural practices. She encouraged students to embrace smart as a means to earn income, enhance productivity and sustainability.
By Agnes Mwangi
Directorate Of Marketing And Resource Mobilization
