In a groundbreaking move to promote hands-on learning for sustainable agriculture, researchers at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), have successfully completed a demonstration project on grapes and rice cultivation. This initiative aimed at changing the identity of rice and grapes in Kenya as an ‘aristocratic fruit’, and hopefully facilitating entry of the two into more Kenyan households. The project involved bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application for students pursuing agriculture, environmental sciences, and related fields and marks a significant step toward innovation in agricultural education.
The project based at JKUAT’s Modern Agriculture Demonstration Area within the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre (SAJOREC) saw trials of three grape varieties from China namely ‘Jing Xiangyu’, ‘Jing Yan’, and ‘Jing Yan Jing’ and “Hong Lian variety” hybrid rice (also known as Red-lotus variety).
Grapes, known for their precision irrigation needs and high economic value, are being cultivated alongside rice, a staple crop requiring unique water management techniques. Together, they represent diverse agricultural practices that can address global food security challenges.
Speaking during the official handing over of the project’s first fruits to the JKUAT management, the Director SAJOREC Prof.
Robert Gituru said that the demonstration site will serve as a living laboratory for students and researchers.
“This initiative is more than just farming. It’s an educational revolution as we aim to provide students with firsthand experience in crop cultivation while integrating insights from business, environmental science, and technology,” said Prof. Gituru. “Beyond academics, the project is designed to engage the local community. Workshops and training sessions for local farmers will be hosted, sharing knowledge about sustainable farming practices,” he added.
While receiving the first fruits of the project, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC) in charge of Research Production and Extension (RPE) Prof. Jackson Kwanza congratulated the project’s team on the success, stating that, it involves more than just about growing crops.
“It’s about fostering innovation, sustainability, and resilience in the face of global food challenges. In addition, students will gain invaluable skills through direct involvement in these farming practices,” Prof. Kwanza said.
The DVC added that in addition to academic pursuits, the program would benefit the local community by sharing knowledge through workshops and extension services.
“A key focus is on sustainable practices, including organic farming and precision agriculture technologies,” noted Prof. Kwanza. “This endeavor aligns with the university’s mission to foster innovation and address real-world challenges and by cultivating grapes and rice, JKUAT is not just growing crops it is planting the seeds for a future where agriculture is sustainable, innovative, and inclusive,” he added.
The initiative offers students a chance to participate in every stage of the farming process, from soil preparation to harvesting. Research opportunities abound, focusing on sustainable farming techniques, pest control, and water management. On the other hand, the project also includes partnerships with local farmers and agricultural experts, providing students with real-world insights and networking opportunities.
The project was undertaken in partnership with the Beijing Key Laboratory of Grapevine Science and Winemaking Technology of the Institute of Botany, Wuhan University and Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).
