The Vice Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, Prof. Deresh Ramjugernath, on Monday, June 10, 2025, paid a courtesy call to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi. The visit laid the groundwork for strategic collaboration in research, innovation, and higher education between the two institutions.
Prof. Deresh emphasized the need for African universities to become architects of a new African reality and champions of African agency through collaborative research, innovation, and Training.
Emphasizing the need for Pan-African academic unity, Prof. Ramjugernath added, “African universities must work together for Africa, with Africa, by Africa.”
This, he noted, is central to building sustainable research ecosystems that can effectively address the continent’s diverse needs.
Prof. Ramjugernath lauded JKUAT’s distinguished academic and research profile, describing the institution as a continental model for innovation-driven programs.
“JKUAT and Stellenbosch are highly reputable and share the same vision in research and training. We must rally like-minded stakeholders and institutions, governments, and development partners such as JICA to co-create solutions for the continent,” said Ramjugernath.
The deliberations focused on potential areas of collaboration, including joint research proposals, academic exchanges for staff and students, and shared innovation platforms. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening university-led solutions aligned with national and continental development goals.
Prof. Ngumi reaffirmed JKUAT’s commitment to expanding its collaborative footprint with Stellenbosch University.
“We warmly welcome this engagement as a reflection of our shared dedication to high-quality research, academic excellence, and sustainable development. At JKUAT, we remain steadfast in investing in innovation-driven programs that address real-world challenges across agriculture, engineering, health, and ICT,” said Prof. Ngumi.
She emphasized that institutional partnerships play a vital role in building a resilient academic and research ecosystem that serves local communities while contributing to Africa’s broader development agenda.
Prof. Ngumi revealed that the scope of research at JKUAT was informed by the understanding that interdisciplinary researchers must collaborate as a unified team to effectively address societal challenges.
Accompanying Prof. Ramjugernath was Dr. Nico Elema, Director of the Centre for Collaboration in Africa at Stellenbosch University.
Dr. Elema highlighted the value of inter-university linkages in advancing Pan-African scholarship and innovation.
“The foundation of strong collaboration lies in understanding that Africa’s challenges are not homogenous. We must craft context-specific solutions that respond to local realities,” said Dr. Elema.
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities of excellence, noting that such partnerships offer valuable opportunities for mutual learning.
He highlighted the numerous staff and student exchanges that had already taken place between the two institutions and expressed his admiration for how Stellenbosch University had successfully cultivated a synergistic relationship with its surrounding community in South Africa.
Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration and Finance, Prof. Daniel Sila, noted that research conducted at JKUAT is closely aligned with national development priorities, underscoring the University’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through innovation.
Also present were Prof. Hellen Mberia, Principal of Karen Campus; Prof. Florence Memba, Dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship; Dr. Hiram Ndiritu, Principal of the College of Engineering and Technology; and Ms. Mai Toda, Africa-ai-Japan Project Coordinator.
