Dr. Rebecca Maina has been appointed Director of Linkages under the Division of Research, Production and Extension (RPE) at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) for a two-year term, effective July 1, 2026,.
In an appointment letter dated June 4, 2026, signed by the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Maina is expected “to provide academic and administrative leadership for the Directorate of Linkages” while spearheading initiatives that strengthen local and international partnerships.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Directorate of Linkages as it continues to enhance collaboration with industry, government, research institutions, and international partners in support of the University’s teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement agenda.
Dr. Maina who succeeds Dr. Mwikamba Kaibui, brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in various capacities at the University. She previously served as Acting Director of the Research and Innovation Directorate and as a Senior Research Officer in the Directorate, where she contributed to advancing JKUAT’s research and innovation agenda.
She also served as a lecturer and a senior administrative staff member in the College of Human Resource Development, further enriching her experience in academic administration and institutional development.
Dr. Maina said her experience within the RPE Division has given her a strong foundation to foster partnerships that advance the University’s academic, research, and innovation agenda.
“I am excited to begin this new chapter. Having served in various roles across the University has equipped me with valuable experience that I will leverage to strengthen linkages, foster collaboration, and contribute to the University’s growth,” she said.
Dr. Maina outlined plans to strengthen the University’s collaborations by sensitizing staff on partnership opportunities and proactively engaging strategic local and international institutions to establish mutually beneficial collaborations.
She also noted that the transition to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) model presents unique opportunities for the University to forge stronger industry partnerships and enhance experiential learning through strategic collaborations.
The outgoing Director of Linkages, Dr. Mwikamba Kaibui, noted that the Directorate has played a pivotal role in fostering partnerships that support the University’s teaching, research, innovation, and outreach programmes.
“During my tenure, I oversaw more than 300 collaborations spanning a wide range of areas, strengthening the University’s partnerships with industry, government, research institutions, and international organizations,” said Dr. Kaibui.
He added that JKUAT must continue exploring new frontiers and forging strategic partnerships to unlock emerging opportunities in teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement.
Dr. Kaibui congratulated Dr. Maina on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to build on the Directorate’s achievements by strengthening the University’s partnerships and expanding its collaboration network.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi congratulated Dr. Maina on her appointment and expressed optimism that the new director “will discharge her responsibilities with diligence and dedication in accordance with the university statutes and regulations. I am confident she will strengthen the University’s linkages and contribute to advancing JKUAT’s internationalization agenda,” said Prof. Ngumi.
