Egerton University, in partnership with Bowie State University, recently convened a meeting at the Crop Management Research Training (CMRT) Centre to introduce students to the transformative Egerton University-Bowie State University exchange program.
The purpose of the meeting was to provide students with an overview of the; Egerton University- Bowie State University Global Research and Extension experience (REU-REEU) for US undergraduate students hosted by Egerton University from June 8, 2023, to July 31, 2023. The students were shown the various segments in which they would participate during their 8-week stay in the program funded to the tune of US68,500. The funders are the National Science Foundation supporting REU and USDA NIFA supporting the REEU program.
During her opening remarks, Project Director Prof. Anne Osano expressed her gratitude for being granted funding by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support undergraduate research. She described it as a privilege to encourage undergraduates to incorporate research and gain global experience, particularly in light of the ongoing process of globalization.
Prof. Osano expressed her anticipation for another remarkable experience, noting, "Egerton University is the best place to be as I have worked with this team before. We want to expose you to global life as you conduct research. Working with top-notch scientists in such an environment is a remarkable opportunity."
The official launch was presided over by Prof. Bernard Aduda, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in-charge of Academic Affairs, who delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging the students to make the most of their time at Egerton University. He urged them not only to benefit from the institution but also to contribute to the fight against food insecurity by assisting in the development of drought-resistant crops that will shape the future. Prof. Aduda emphasized the importance of learning about the diverse dialects and cultures of Kenya and engaging with farmers in the field.
“I hope that in the future, undergraduate students from Africa are going to the United states also to have the experience of the American Universities for it to be a full cycle of an exchange program,” said Professor Aduda.
Prof. Joshua Ogendo, the Project Coordinator at Egerton, highlighted the transformative impact of the exchange program, particularly since its collaboration with Bowie State University in 2016. He expressed confidence in the student’s ability to benefit from Egerton University's state-of-the-art facilities and contribute to research in food and nutrition security, aligning with the university's strategic plan.
Melin Scott, a participating student from Western Washington University under the program, shared her excitement about visiting Kenya for the first time and her eagerness to learn from both the country and Egerton University. She expressed fondness for the climate and the people she had encountered thus far and her desire to make a difference in the agricultural sector during her 8-week study program. Additionally, she hoped to learn Swahili and gain insights into various Kenyan cultures.
Prof. Nancy Mungai, the Director of Research and Extension, assured the researchers that their time at Egerton University would be enriching. She emphasized that they would have the opportunity to interact with numerous people, tools, and plants, which would expand their research and extension skills. Furthermore, she encouraged the students to publish and disseminate their research findings through various platforms, such as research forums and conferences, to benefit the wider community.
The Bowie-Egerton Exchange Program has provided students with a unique opportunity to engage in research activities and gain valuable international experience. Over the years, the program has made significant contributions to research on food and nutrition security, aligning with Egerton University's commitment to addressing this pressing issue.
By collaborating with Bowie State University, Egerton has fostered an environment of cultural exchange and knowledge sharing, enabling students to broaden their perspectives and make meaningful contributions to their fields of study.
As the program progresses, it is expected that the participating students will immerse themselves in the rich Kenyan culture, interact with local farmers, and leverage the university's resources to conduct impactful research. Their findings and experiences will not only benefit their academic and personal growth but also contribute to the larger goal of achieving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Kenya and beyond.
Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB Bank) Branch also provided information about the financial support available to students in the exchange program, including attractive currency exchange rates and versatile bank accounts that can be used beyond Kenya.
The program includes a team of Mentor Professors, including Prof. Richard Mulwa, Prof. Erick Cheruiyot, Dr.Joseph Mafurah, Prof. Paul Kimurto, Dr. Oscar Donde, Dr. Elick Otachi, Dr. John Nduko, and Dr. Maurice Udoto. Their expertise and guidance will be instrumental in supporting the students during their research in the exchange program.
The induction event was attended by various dignitaries, including Prof. Samuel Munga, Director of CMRT, and Prof. Joyce Ndemo from the Department of Crops, Horticulture, and Soils, as well as the Mentor Assistants, who are postgraduate students assigned to assist and guide the participating students throughout their research journey.
The Bowie-Egerton Exchange Program of 2023 marks another milestone in the partnership between Egerton University and Bowie State University. It serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
Among the students in the program are; Barnett Ian (Howard University), Adrion Celey (University District of Columbia), Jzar Jasira (Howard University), Maybee Alexander (University of Michigan), Oliver Jordan (Bowie State University), Salubi Ophilia (Bowie State University), Seid Sabriya (Loyola Marymount University), Tate Madison (Howard University), Tuazon Kyla (University of Guam), Compton Jazmine (Portland State University), Demelash Makda (Montgomery College), Goldson Natasha (Bowie State University), Olawunmi Esther (Bowie State University), Scott Melin (Western Washington University), Smith Keonna (Bowie State University), Tedjouteu Lekane Valdel (Bowie State University), Abdullahi Ismail Iro (Bowie State University)
The exchange program, which commenced in 2019, offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to engage in a research program at Egerton University, specifically in the Faculty of Agriculture's Department of Crops, Horticulture, and Soils (CHS).
For more information about the program, please contact the Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Story By: Kurian Musa & Ian Martin
