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Jomo Kenyatta University Biochemistry Society (JKUBS)

Nurturing the Passion for Biochemistry

The Jomo Kenyatta University Biochemistry Society (JKUBS) is a student-led society dedicated to connecting Biochemistry students at JKUAT with opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and meaningful engagement in the health sciences and related fields.

We foster cohesion, professionalism, and active participation, creating a supportive community where students can develop their skills, explore their passion for Biochemistry, and build connections that prepare them for the professional world.

Our Vision

To be an integral channel for training and linking Biochemistry students of JKUAT to the professional world of health sciences and related fields.

Our Mission

To promote cohesion among our members, enhance professionalism, and encourage active participation in society activities.

Our Motto

“To nurture the passion for Biochemistry disciplines.”

About Us

The Jomo Kenyatta University Biochemistry Society (JKUBS) is a student-led society under the Department of Biochemistry at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). We bring together students with a shared interest in biochemistry, scientific discovery, innovation, and professional development.

JKUBS provides a platform where students can learn beyond the classroom, connect with one another, develop professional skills, and explore opportunities within the biological and life sciences. Through academic activities, research engagement, career events, industrial visits, workshops, outreach programs, competitions, and social activities, we seek to create an environment where students can grow both academically and personally.

Our society is built around the belief that biochemistry is more than a course of study—it is a field that connects fundamental science to some of the most important challenges in health, agriculture, biotechnology, industry, and the environment. We therefore encourage curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking, and a passion for scientific inquiry among our members.

JKUBS also seeks to strengthen the connection between students, the Department, alumni, researchers, and industry. By creating opportunities for mentorship, networking, knowledge sharing, and exposure to the world beyond university, we aim to help our members become confident and capable future scientists and professionals.

Through this platform, we document our activities, celebrate our members’ achievements, share academic and professional opportunities, and build a lasting record of the Society’s contribution to the Department and the wider university community.

JKUBS — Learn. Connect. Discover. Excel.

JKUBS is guided by a dedicated team of student leaders committed to fostering academic excellence, professional, development, scientific engagement, and a strong sense of community among Biochemistry students…

Meet the crew, beginning with our patron:

“JKUBS has been more than just a student society; it has been a platform that nurtures talent, builds confidence, and inspires excellence. My association with JKUBS has given me the opportunity to witness young biochemists grow in knowledge, leadership, professionalism, and character. I am proud to be part of a society that continues to empower its members and prepare them to make meaningful contributions to science and society.”

Society patron: Dr. Mbogo

“JKUBS is more than a society; it is a community where we learn, connect, grow, and inspire one another to become better scientists and professionals.”

Chairperson: Amos Geoffrey

“As Vice Chairperson, I see JKUBS as a platform for unity, growth, and opportunity, where every member is encouraged to participate, contribute, and reach their full potential.”

Vice chairperson: Shiphrah Wangu

“JKUBS is more than a society it’s a community of learners, leaders, and future innovators. I’m honored to serve and contribute to its growth. ”

Secretary General: Marwa Fredrick Mwita

“JKUBS is the place to be to socialize,develop leadership skills and get skills in the field of research”

Treasurer: Vascoda Bakari

“Every student deserves a space to learn, grow and be seen. Through JKUBS, I hope to help build a community where we support one another, discover our potential, and grow beyond the classroom.”

Vice secretary general: Cindy Olonana

“Leadership is not about standing above others, but standing with them, inspiring confidence, and creating opportunities to grow. As we pursue excellence in JKUBS, I am reminded of Paul Kalanithi’s words: ‘You can’t ever reach perfection, but you can believe in an asymptote toward which you are ceaselessly striving.’ May we continue to learn, lead, encourage one another, and strive relentlessly toward the people and leaders we aspire to become.”

Linked in account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-walua-a62381344?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_android

Organizing secretary: Keith K. Walua

“As Vice Organizing Secretary, I envision JKUBS as more than a society,it is a community where ideas are nurtured, talents are discovered, and every member is empowered to connect, contribute, and grow into their fullest potential.”

Vice Organizing Secretary: Noel Mukhwana

“Joining JKUBS is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded students, build valuable skills, and grow both academically and professionally. It provides a platform to learn, collaborate, participate in meaningful projects, and contribute to the biochemistry community. Be part of JKUBS and grow, connect, and make an impact.”

Project Coordinator: Iverson Nderi

“To me, the JKUAT Biochemistry Society (JKUBS) is more than just a student organization it is a community of curious minds, shared dreams, and a passion for understanding the science of life. Through academic engagement, research, professional development, outreach, and social activities, the society creates a space where students can learn from one another, discover their potential, and build lasting connections. Together, we celebrate our achievements, support each other through the challenges of university life, and inspire one another to grow beyond the classroom. At the heart of the society is a shared belief that science is not only about what we learn, but also about the people we become and the impact we hope to make. As the media and publicity secretary, I aim to establish an audience of like minded students and grow the society into a beacon of excellence for all Biochemistry students and those to come.”

Media and Publicity Secretary: Burudi Chloe Mayuva

“JKUBS has been more than just a society to me; it has been a community that has helped me grow in confidence, build meaningful connections, and discover my potential. Through the society, I’ve gained valuable experiences, learned the importance of teamwork and leadership, and had the opportunity to interact with people who inspire me to become better. I’m grateful for the experiences and memories I’ve made through JKUBS, and I look forward to giving back by representing and supporting my fellow students.”

First & Second year representative: John Kinyua

“My name is Vivian Bonareri Barongo, a Biochemistry and molecular biology student, also serving as the JKUBS third year representative.

As the Third-Year Representative, I am honoured to be part of a society that brings together students with a shared passion for research, innovation, and personal growth. As we progress through our academic journey, we are constantly reminded that our field extends beyond the classroom and laboratory—it offers opportunities to contribute meaningfully to healthcare, research, industry, and society. Together, let us continue building a society that inspires scientific curiosity, nurtures talent, promotes research, and creates opportunities for every member.”

JKUBS third year representative: Vivian Bonareri

“The Society brought the people and experiences that made the journey worth remembering.”

JKUBS fourth year representative;Sheila Robert

In accordance to protocol,these are their names and positions below:

Geoffrey Amos – Chairperson
Shiphrah Wangu – Vice Chairperson
Fredrick Marwa – Secretary General
Vascoda Bakari – Treasurer
Cindy Olonana – Vice Secretary General
Keith Walua – Organising Secretary
Noel Mukhwana – Vice Organising Secretary
Iverson Nderi – Project Coordinator
Chloe Burudi – Media and Publicity Secretary
Shilah Robert – 4th Year Representative
Vivian Bonareri – 3rd Year Representative
John Kinyua – 1st and 2nd Year Representative

🧬 JKUBS News & Updates

Science Beyond the Classroom

Welcome to the JKUBS News & Updates section — a space where we connect our members with developments in biochemistry, biomedical science, health research and innovation at JKUAT and beyond.

Here, we highlight upcoming scientific events, research activities, student achievements and developments within the wider JKUAT biomedical community.

🔭 UPCOMING

Attached is the calendar of events for the first semester 2026/27

NOTE: dates are at times reviewed in order to convenience both the society and its members . Publicizing and creating awareness about most of our activities is mostly achieved through our social media handles as indicated beneath the contact us tab.

Healthy Ageing Conference 2026

30 September – 2 October 2026

JKUAT is set to host its inaugural Healthy Ageing Conference, bringing together experts and stakeholders to explore the challenges and opportunities surrounding ageing in Kenya and Africa.

The conference is being advanced by JKUAT’s Centre for Healthy Ageing (CEFHA) and will take a multidisciplinary approach involving areas including nutrition, chronic disease management, rehabilitation, public health, mental health and other health-related disciplines.

For students of biochemistry and biomedical sciences, the conference offers an opportunity to appreciate how molecular and biological knowledge connects with broader questions of human health and healthy ageing.

🔗 Read the official JKUAT announcement https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jkuat_%F0%9D%90%8F%F0%9D%90%AB%F0%9D%90%9E%F0%9D%90%A9%F0%9D%90%9A%F0%9D%90%AB%F0%9D%90%A2%F0%9D%90%A7%F0%9D%90%A0-%F0%9D%90%9F%F0%9D%90%A8%F0%9D%90%AB-%F0%9D%90%9A%F0%9D%90%A7-%F0%9D%90%9A%F0%9D%90%A0%F0%9D%90%9E%F0%9D%90%A2%F0%9D%90%A7-activity-7498282332639117313-HK-9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAFYyOKoBJPusuN1_SNNlQhQq4pY0B6qUDek

🧪 RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

JKUAT Advances Laboratory Animal Research Training

April 2026

The JKUAT Small Animal Facility for Research and Innovation (SAFARI) held a two-day Laboratory Animal Handling and Care for Research Workshop on 16–17 April 2026.

The programme combined theoretical and practical training in areas including animal handling and restraint, welfare and ethics, experimental care, nutrition, surgical techniques, anaesthesia, pain management, disease management and humane endpoints.

Participants included researchers and students from institutions including KEMRI, KIPRE, PAUSTI and JKUAT, demonstrating the role of JKUAT in strengthening research capacity within the biomedical sciences.

🔗 View the original JKUAT post →https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jkuat_the-jkuat-small-animal-facility-for-research-activity-7452263982653988864-bbng?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAFYyOKoBJPusuN1_SNNlQhQq4pY0B6qUDek

Why it matters to us:
For biochemistry and biomedical students, research depends not only on theoretical knowledge but also on responsible, ethical and technically sound experimental practice.

🦠 Students & Medical Professionals Unite Against Antimicrobial Resistance

23–24 April 2026

The JKUMReC Youth Antimicrobial Resistance Summit brought students and medical professionals together at JKUAT’s Sino-Africa Joint Research Center for a two-day forum under the theme:

“Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”

The summit explored the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and brought together experts from JKUAT, KEMRI and other health institutions to discuss health systems, innovation and strategies for tackling drug-resistant infections.

The event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between universities, researchers and healthcare professionals in addressing some of the most urgent challenges facing modern medicine.

🔗 View the original JKUAT post →https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jkuat_students-and-medical-professionals-gathered-activity-7453348774162157568-JfwG?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAFYyOKoBJPusuN1_SNNlQhQq4pY0B6qUDek

🔬 Innovation in Action at JKUAT

19 June 2026

JKUAT researchers and postgraduate students showcased innovative solutions during the AFRICA-ai-JAPAN Project Poster Competition.

The event brought together multidisciplinary teams working under JKUAT’s Innovation Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (iCMoB) and other innovation centres.

Among the research areas presented were AI in healthcare, antimicrobial resistance and advanced methods for detecting persistent malaria parasites, alongside innovations addressing agriculture, manufacturing and environmental sustainability.

The showcase highlights the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of modern biochemistry and biomedical research, where molecular science increasingly intersects with artificial intelligence, diagnostics and biotechnology.

🔗 View the original JKUAT post →

🌍 WHY THIS MATTERS TO JKUBS

Biochemistry does not exist in isolation. It connects molecular science with medicine, disease, nutrition, biotechnology, research and public health.

As students, we have an opportunity not only to learn established scientific knowledge, but also to follow the research, innovations and conversations that are shaping the future of our discipline.

Stay curious. Stay informed. Keep discovering.

JKUBS — Learn. Connect. Discover. Excel.

Our Activities

At JKUBS, we believe that university life should be a balance of academic growth, meaningful connections and memorable experiences. Our activities are designed to bring students together, encourage personal development and create a vibrant community beyond the classroom.

Our Game Nights and Movie Nights provide relaxed spaces for members to interact, build friendships and unwind together. Through field games such as football and other recreational activities, we promote teamwork, healthy competition and an active community spirit.

We also organize educational and professional trips, including academic and industrial visits, giving students opportunities to experience the practical side of biochemistry and related sciences. Our workshops provide platforms for learning new skills, sharing knowledge and preparing members for professional life.

JKUBS also takes part in awareness and outreach initiatives, creating awareness on scientific, health and societal issues while encouraging students to use their knowledge beyond the university. Through debate nights and scientific discussions, members are encouraged to think critically, express their ideas confidently and engage with different perspectives.

Together, these activities make JKUBS more than a society—they create a community where students can learn, connect, discover, compete, lead and grow.

Below is the current calendar of events for the first semester 2026/2027:

POV: on the bottom of this page you’ll find a gallery that graces the multiple activities we’ve had as a society alt. you can visit our social media handles ; https://www.instagram.com/biochem_jkuat?stkn=eGdhbWo2azBkeDdj

How does one join JKUBS?

A registration fee of kes 200 is paid.This grants you opportunities and access to Academic Trips, Conferences, Seminars, Mentorship Programs,Social Activities like Game Nights, Movie Nights etc.
A renewal fee of kes 100 is paid per academic year in order to continue getting access to the above opportunities and get a certificate at the end of your degree.

To register:

Lipa na Mpesa

Pochi La Biashara

‎+254 181 594540 – Vascoda Ndioro

Kindly send the confirmation message to the treasurer and you are DONE!

Contact Us

We’d Love to Hear From You

Whether you are a student looking to join JKUBS, an alumnus hoping to reconnect, a potential collaborator, or simply interested in what we do, we would be happy to hear from you.

Location Department of Biochemistry Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Juja, Kiambu County, Kenya

Email : jkubs@jkuat.ac.ke

Phone:

Geoffrey Amos(Chairperson) +254757566001 or

Shiphrah Wangu(Vice Chairperson)+254768373667 or

Chloe Burudi(Media and Publicity Secretary)+254743422913

Connect With Us

Follow JKUBS on our official social media platforms for the latest announcements, events, opportunities, and society updates.

Instagram:

@biochem_jkuat

https://www.instagram.com/biochem_jkuat?stkn=eGdhbWo2azBkeDdj

Send Us a Message

Have a question, suggestion, or opportunity you’d like to share with us? Send us a message and the JKUBS team will get back to you.

Full Name Email Address Subject Message

Submit

Connect. Collaborate. Grow.

JKUBS welcomes opportunities to connect with students, alumni, researchers, industry professionals, organizations, and other academic societies. Together, we can create opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

📚 JKUBS REVISION RESOURCE HUB

Your one-stop academic resource centre

Everything you need to prepare for your examinations — lecture notes, revision materials, past papers, practical resources, CATs, study guides and other relevant academic materials, organized in one place.

🎯 EXAM PREPARATION MADE EASIER

Whether you’re reviewing a difficult topic, preparing for a CAT, revising practical work, or getting ready for your end-semester examinations, the JKUBS Revision Resource Hub brings the materials together in one organized location.

📂 WHAT’S INSIDE

📖 Lecture & revision notes
📝 Past examination papers
📋 CATs and assessment materials
🔬 Practical & laboratory resources
🧠 Revision guides
📚 Additional study materials
🎯 Examination-preparation resources

🔗 ACCESS THE RESOURCE HUB

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xVRmOf-yWMGyl4rebpMKf5SsIBTvZpBm

Prepare. Revise. Practice. Excel.

💡 DID YOU KNOW?

🧬 Did You Know Your DNA Is Far Longer Than You Are Tall?

If you stretched out the DNA from just one human cell, it would measure roughly 2 metres long.

Now imagine the DNA inside all the cells in your body. If you stretched it all out, it would reach an astonishing distance.

All of that genetic information is packed inside microscopic cells.

That tiny nucleus is holding a very big story. 🧬

⚡ Did You Know Your Cells Have Their Own “Power Stations”?

Your cells contain tiny structures called mitochondria that help produce ATP—the molecule cells use as an immediate source of energy.

Every time you walk, breathe, think, or even blink, your cells are constantly making and using ATP.

You are, in a very real sense, powered by biochemistry. ⚡

🧪 Did You Know Enzymes Can Make Reactions Happen Millions of Times Faster?

Many biochemical reactions would happen far too slowly on their own.

That is where enzymes come in.

These remarkable biological catalysts speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Without enzymes, life as we know it would not function fast enough to keep us alive.

Tiny molecules. Massive consequences. 🔬

🩸 Did You Know Your Blood Isn’t Naturally Red Because of Blood Itself?

The red colour of blood comes largely from hemoglobin, a protein inside red blood cells.

Hemoglobin contains iron, which binds oxygen and contributes to that characteristic red colour.

And here’s the fascinating part:

The same molecule that helps carry oxygen around your body is also responsible for one of the most recognizable colours in biology. 🩸

🧠 Did You Know Your Brain Is Constantly Burning Energy Even While You Sleep?

Your brain never truly switches off.

Even while you’re sleeping, it continues carrying out essential processes such as maintaining cellular activity, communicating between neurons and regulating vital functions.

Rest may look like inactivity—but biochemistry is still working.

🍞 Did You Know Bread Rises Because Microorganisms Are Producing Gas?

When yeast ferments sugars in dough, it produces carbon dioxide and ethanol.

The carbon dioxide becomes trapped within the dough, creating the bubbles that make bread rise.

So the next time you eat bread, remember:

A tiny biochemical process helped build the loaf. 🍞

🧬 Did You Know Your Cells Are Constantly Destroying and Rebuilding Proteins?

Proteins are not simply made once and left alone.

Your cells continuously produce, modify, fold, repair and break down proteins according to what the body needs.

Some proteins may last for days, while others are replaced much faster.

Your body is constantly rebuilding itself at the molecular level.

👅 Did You Know Taste Is Also Chemistry?

Sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami sensations begin when molecules interact with receptors on specialized cells.

In other words, that incredible experience you call taste begins with a molecular interaction.

Every meal is a little chemistry experiment. 🍋🧪

💧 Did You Know Water Can Make Up More Than Half of Your Body?

Water is not just something you drink when you’re thirsty.

It provides the environment in which countless biochemical reactions occur, helps transport substances, regulates temperature and supports normal cellular function.

Life doesn’t simply happen in water—life depends on it. 💧