Mineral resources play a critical role in economic growth, industrial development and job creation. Recognizing the need to strengthen skills, research and innovation in the sector, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, welcomed a delegation from the National University of Science and Technology MISIS (NUST MISIS), Russia on Thursday July 6, 2026.
The visiting delegation was led by Dr. Masamba Kah, Project Lead for Industrial-Educational Partnership with African Countries, and Mr. Paul Iwu, Lead Specialist for International Students.
The delegation held discussions with the JKUAT leadership and representatives from the Schools of Engineering, Computing and Information Technology, as well as Biological Sciences, to establish a broad partnership framework for collaboration in research, innovation, academic exchange and scholarships for the mutual benefit of students and staff.
During the discussions, Prof. Ngumi expressed her appreciation for NUST MISIS’ multidisciplinary approach to mining, noting how Dr. Kah demonstrated the relevance of engineering, computing and biological sciences in advancing the mining sector. She said that the presentation underscored the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex industrial challenges.
The vice chancellor expressed interest in formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reaffirming JKUAT’s commitment to expanding international collaborations in research, innovation, and student and staff mobility. She noted that reciprocal visits would provide valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, institutional learning, and sharing of best practices.
The proposed collaboration, particularly in mining and mineral processing, was also endorsed by Principal of the College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC), Prof. Hiram Ndiritu, and Dr. Jotham Munyalo from the School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Materials Engineering (SoMMME).
Dr. Munyalo observed that while Kenya has made significant progress in mineral exploration, the country still has limited capacity in mineral extraction and processing technologies, underscoring the need for partnerships that strengthen technical expertise, research and skills development.
Responding to this need, Dr. Kah explained that NUST MISIS, based in Russia, a country with globally recognized strengths in mining, metallurgy and related industrial technologies, seeks to connect leading Russian industries with African universities. Through these partnerships, he said, the university aims to develop highly skilled professionals by fostering industry-linked training, collaborative research and innovation.
He emphasized that mining extends far beyond the extraction of minerals, noting that advances in materials science and metallurgy have transformed sectors such as healthcare. He cited the use of advanced materials and 3D printing technologies to produce customized implants and prosthetic components for patients recovering from burns, cancer and other complex medical conditions.
Dr. Kah further highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of a well-developed mining sector, explaining that responsible mineral development stimulates infrastructure growth, creates employment opportunities, improves incomes and catalyzes the growth of surrounding communities. Achieving these outcomes, he noted, requires a multidisciplinary approach that brings together expertise in engineering, computing, biological sciences, environmental management and other complementary fields.
The proposed partnership has the potential to combine JKUAT’s strong engineering and applied science capabilities with NUST MISIS’ globally recognized expertise in mining, metallurgy and materials science. The synergy is expected to create a platform for joint research, knowledge transfer, academic exchange and the development of a new generation of innovators equipped to advance Africa’s mining and industrial sectors.
