Egerton University and Shanghai Jiaotong University-China are exploring a strategic partnership to advance research, innovation and practical solutions in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and rural development.
The partnership discussions took place today during a courtesy visit by a Shanghai Jiaotong University delegation to Egerton University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, who warmly welcomed the team. The meeting focused on strengthening existing engagements and developing a framework for long-term collaboration.
Prof. Kibwage said the partnership presents an opportunity to bring together expertise from Agriculture, Engineering, Biological Sciences and Physics to address real-world challenges facing communities.
Egerton University leadership present; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Bernard Aduda; Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration and Planning, Prof. George Muthaa; and Director of Research and Extension, Prof. George Owuor, emphasized the importance of building strong academic networks and interdisciplinary research teams capable of developing competitive proposals for international funding.
Professor Kibwage welcomed the growing partnership and emphasized the importance of establishing strong academic and professional networks before funding opportunities arise.
Particular emphasis was placed on the potential for collaboration in Engineering, an area The Vice Chancellor identified as critical to the development and scaling of practical agricultural technologies.
Professor Kibwage called on Faculty members from Engineering, Physics, Biological Sciences and Agriculture to interact closely with their counterparts from Shanghai University to identify areas of mutual interest.
A key area of interest is the integration of sustainable agriculture and renewable energy through Shanghai University’s Global Challenge Programme, which enables students to develop practical solutions to global development challenges.
The Shanghai University delegation, led by Prof. Hu Yue, highlighted the work of the Sunrise Team-one of 14 teams participating in the Global Challenge Programme. The exploring innovative agriculture-energy solutions for rural communities in Kenya.
During their field visits, the team identified challenges related to the storage, preservation and transportation of agricultural produce. Discussions therefore explored the potential of solar-powered cold-storage systems, to reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmers’ access to markets including Floriculture.
The two universities are also exploring opportunities to mobilize international funding for joint research and development projects. Potential opportunities include programmes supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Chinese-supported development initiatives in Africa.
Prof. Paul Kimurto, Egerton University’s contact lead for the collaboration, said discussions between the two institutions began last year, with both sides expressing interest in strengthening cooperation through reciprocal visits.
Prof. Kimurto noted that the partnership has strong potential in Agriculture, Engineering, Biological Sciences and Physics, adding that the initial focus will be to develop a working framework to guide practical joint activities.
The proposed collaboration will also promote student and staff mobility, joint seminars, study tours, experiential learning, research collaboration and capacity building.
Shanghai University has further proposed establishing a Social Practice Base at Egerton University to provide students with opportunities for field-based learning, research and community engagement in Kenya.
Prof. Yue said the Sunrise Team has already pursued funding for an international energy and agriculture project through Shanghai government-supported mechanisms. Although the proposal is still under review, the team remains committed to advancing the research and exploring additional funding opportunities.
Egerton and Shanghai Jiaotong University will now work towards formalizing the collaboration and establishing interdisciplinary teams to drive joint research, innovation, student exchange, capacity building and resource mobilization.
John Emeripus
Communication Manager
Egerton University.
