Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) hosted a delegation of three universities from Japan on Monday, March 3, 2025.
The three institutions, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Obihiro University, and Kyushu University visited JKUAT to explore potential areas of mutual collaboration, focusing on research, academic exchange, and technology transfer.
The delegation led by Prof. Taku Kato from Kyushu University was welcomed by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration and Finance, Prof. Bernard Ikua, on behalf of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi.
Prof. Ikua emphasized JKUAT’s strong collaboration with Japanese universities since its inception in 1981, noting that collaborative research is ongoing across all five colleges of the university.
Prof. Ikua emphasized that collaboration with Japanese universities aligns with the university’s mission and strengthens its internationalization efforts.
“Partnering with Japanese institutions enhances knowledge exchange, research opportunities, and global engagement for our students and faculty,” said Prof. Ikua.
He further noted, the collaboration presents an excellent opportunity to build synergy and strengthen agricultural research, technology and innovation.
Prof. Kato lauded JKUAT’s research achievements and reaffirmed Japan’s willingness to support collaborative projects.
Prof. Kato expressed optimism that the engagement would create new avenues for students and faculty exchange, joint research initiatives, and capacity-building programs.
He underscored Japan’s long-standing commitment to strengthening academic ties with Kenya, adding that the partnership could significantly contribute to Kenya’s solutions to local problems.
Prof. Robert Kinyua, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, welcomed the collaboration as a crucial step in enhancing the university’s global competitiveness.
“International partnerships provide our students and faculty with exposure to best practices and cutting-edge research, ensuring that JKUAT remains at the forefront of academic excellence,” said Prof. Kinyua. He welcomed the new cohort of exchange students visiting JKUAT from Japan.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Research, Production and Extension, Prof. Jackson Kwanza, highlighted the importance of research-driven partnerships.
“Collaborative research between JKUAT and Japanese institutions will not only foster knowledge exchange, but also lead to innovations that can address pressing challenges,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to the Japanese government for cultivating a synergistic partnership that advances training, research, and innovation.
Also present during the meeting were: Prof. Daniel Sila, Principal of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources; Dr. Hiram Ndiritu, Principal of the College of Engineering and Technology; Prof. Osamu Muta of Kyushu University; Dr. Taisuke Ekino of Obihiro University; Dr. Rehema Ndeda, among others.
The Japanese delegation visited JKUAT with the support of the Africa-ai-Japan project, which was represented by Dr. Shohei Aoki, Ms. Mai Toda, and Dr. Rintaro Kinoshita.
