Egerton University and Bowie State University, USA, launched the 2024 Global Research and Extension Experience for Undergraduates in Kenya on 13 June at Main Campus,Njoro. This year’s cohort comprises of fifteen (15) students drawn from nine (9) American universities.
Since 2019, the University has been in collaboration with Bowie State University (BSU) in hosting the REU-REEU program that supports students from the United States of America (USA). The students will be immersed in an eight-week international summer research program that started on 5 June and will conclude on 31 July.
According to the Program Director at Egerton University Professor Joshua Ogendo, the Program's genesis resulted from a collaboration between Egerton University and BSU initiated in 2016. He outlined the Program’s objectives key among them being benchmarking and accreditation of academic programs, joint research and capacity building initiatives, Faculty and students mobility (research, training, courses, sabbaticals) and joint supervision of graduate students.
Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage warmly welcomed the 2024 cohort, encouraging them to focus on their research projects and experiences at Egerton University. He eagerly anticipates engaging with the students during their research poster presentations at the program's conclusion. Professor Kibwage highlighted the rich opportunities available to students, including access to the university's research infrastructure, mentorship for academic excellence, and the chance to experience Kenya's diverse cultural heritage.
Professor Joyce Lelei, Chair of the Department of Crops, Horticulture, and Soils, extended her welcome to the students on behalf of the Dean of Agriculture.
Professor Anne Osano, the Program Director and Associate Professor at Bowie State University, emphasized the students' eagerness to enhance their research and extension skills. She encouraged them to publish and share their findings with the broader community through research forums and conferences.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage leads a group photo during the launch of the 2024 Egerton University-Bowie State University Program (2019-2024) for US Undergraduate Students Global Research and Extension Experience in Kenya at Main Campus in Njoro on 13 June 2024.
The nine (9) universities are Bowie State University (lead institution); Howard University; Cornell University; Wheaton College; Florida A&M University; North Carolina University Asheville; Eckerd College; University of Maryland and Thomas More University.
During the 8 weeks at Egerton University, the fifteen (15) students be hosted by the following Mentor-Professors and their respective ongoing research projects:
- Prof Richard M.S. Mulwa: Exploring the effects of different drying methods on the bioactive compounds and antioxidant potential of beetroot powder.
- Prof.Paul K. Kimurto: Neglected and underutilized (NUS) African millet diversity and their responses to drought, low soil fertility, and grain nutrient profiles for food formulation.
- Prof.Erick Cheruiyot: Adopting sorghum for resilience to climate change effects, food security and household livelihoods in Kenya.
- Dr. john Nduko: Tackling Post-Harvest Losses in Mango and Avocado Production: A Novel Approach Using Antimicrobial Edible Coatings
- Dr.Maurice O. Udoto: Utilizing an innovation platform to improve milk production among smallholder dairy farmers in Narok County, Kenya.
- Dr.Joseph J. Mafurah: Biocontrol Potential of Endophytes for Sustainable Agricultural Intensification in Kenya's Forgotten Crops.
- Dr.Elick O. Otachi: Sustainable Fish Feeds: Prospects of culturing the freshwater shrimp (Caridina nilotica) for fish feed production.
- Dr.Oscar Donde: Isolation of probiotic Lactobacillus spp. & associated prebiotic compounds for potential application in aquaponic production.
By: Agnes Mwangi
Directorate Of Marketing and Resource Mobilization
