Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and the Numerical Machining Complex have renewed efforts to actualize a partnership established in 2022, aimed at strengthening research, innovation, industrial development, and skills transfer in engineering and related fields.
The two institutions convened a plenary meeting on August 29, 2025, to chart the rollout of joint initiatives under the Memorandum of Understanding. Discussions centered on collaborative research projects, capacity building through staff training and exchange programs, and mechanisms for commercialization of innovations.
Dr. Meshack Hawi, Director of the Directorate of Intellectual Property Management and University-Industry Liaison (DIPUIL), said the renewed momentum reflects JKUAT’s determination to translate research into tangible outcomes.
“This partnership is a critical step in bridging the gap between academia and industry. By working closely with the Numerical Machining Complex, we are not only enhancing innovation but also creating pathways for our students and researchers to contribute directly to national development,” he noted.
Dr. Daniel Omondi delivered on behalf of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Production and Extension, Prof. Jackson Kwanza. He lauded the partnership as timely, stressing that it aligns with JKUAT’s mandate of driving Kenya’s industrial transformation through applied research and innovation.
“This collaboration underscores our shared responsibility to build sustainable linkages with industry. It is through such engagements that our research output can be scaled, commercialized, and translated into tangible solutions for society,” Dr. Omondi observed.
Ms. Zipporrah Samoei of the Numerical Machining Complex underscored the importance of identifying practical areas of staff training, including short courses on intellectual property management, advanced machining, and industrial safety. “Our focus is on building a workforce that is both skilled and innovative. By working with JKUAT, we can jointly design training programs that not only meet industry standards but also anticipate future technological shifts,” she remarked.
Other members spearheading activities of the MOU include Eng. Pius Githu, Mr. Dickson Mwangi and Mr. Evans Ocharo from NMC, and Dr. Eng. Samuel Kabini and Dr. Peter Oketch from JKUAT.
