Chuka University has received a multimillion equipment donation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reinforcing its commitment to advancing agricultural research.
Professor Henry Mutembei, the Vice Chancellor, spearheaded the proposal, which ultimately secured three years of renewable funding for the university.
The significant contribution, valued at approximately fifty million shillings, encompasses digital microscopes, a state-of-the-art transonography machine, and artificial insemination kits.
"The United Nations is supporting Kenya, specifically to improve agricultural productivity. As Chuka University we feel privileged to have been selected to be part of this project" - Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei
The VC highlighted the need to have a centre of excellence on utilization of nuclear power to advance agricultural productivity in the country, envisioning Chuka University as a future center of excellence in animal genetics, reproductive technology, and animal nutrition.
Professor Eunice Githae, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor(Administration, Finance, Planning and Development), highlighted the project's broader impact, emphasizing its potential to benefit not only the university but also the surrounding community through outreach programs and collaborative initiatives.
"These equipment will not only be used I teaching, they will also be used in research and for income generation", she said.
Expressing gratitude, Professor Paul Kamweru, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, underscored the positive impact on disciplines such as Biochemistry, praising the simplified tasks enabled by the new equipment in teaching environments.
The VC Prof. Henry Mutembei has also outlined plans for staff capacity building, adding that international collaborations will help bring the latest agricultural technologies to Chuka University.
The university's commitment to knowledge exchange extends globally, with plans to send staff members to various parts of the world, fostering expertise in fields such as breeding, genetics, and animal nutrition.
The Writer, Lawrence Mbogo is a First Year Communication Studies Student at Chuka University
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