JKUAT and Nelson Mandela University Explore Research Partnership – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua (left), engages with (R-L)Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director at the Mandela International Office, Dr. Leizel Williams from the Department of Geosciences, and Mr. Sinoluvo Dyubele, Coordinator of African Partnerships.

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and have initiated talks to explore a partnership centered on research, innovation, and student-faculty exchange.

The discussions were initiated November 25, 2025, when Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director of the Mandela International Office(IMO) at NMU, paid a courtesy call on JKUAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Ngumi.

During the visit, the two institutions explored potential avenues for collaboration, including joint degree programmes, faculty and student exchanges, collaborative research, and cross‑institutional knowledge-sharing.

Prof. Judy expressed keen interest in collaborative research projects, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that would jointly benefit both institutions.

*Roundtable discussions between JKUAT leadership and the visiting delegation from Nelson Mandela University.*

While acknowledging the importance of such collaborations, Prof. Peter emphasized that strategic partnerships are essential for enhancing academic excellence, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable development across the continent.

“It is time for us, as a continent, to rely on our own capabilities rather than depending on the West. We must leverage our expertise, innovation, and resources to drive sustainable development and chart a future that is truly African led,” Prof. Peter stated.

*Prof. Judy Peter, Senior Director at the Mandela International Office extends a gesture of appreciation to Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, after the discussions.*

Prof. Peter emphasized that her institution is particularly keen on collaborating in Engineering, Marine sciences, sustainable livelihoods, and health and well-being, among other fields of mutual interest.

Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Vice chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, said JKUAT’s vision is rooted in the commitment to strengthening international partnerships to drive academic excellence and regional development.

Prof. Kinyua emphasized that the partnership would enable both institutions to leverage their strengths in research, innovation, and academic capacity building, while also fostering sustainable development and enhancing the internationalization of their programs.

The delegation, which also included Dr. Leizel Williams, from the Department of Geosciences, and Sinoluvo Dyubele, Coordinator of African Partnerships, toured various JKUAT laboratories, engaging with faculty and students to gain first-hand insight into ongoing research and academic initiatives.