By Naomi Chebiwot Chelanga and Carolyne Nafula Kisaka, Doctoral Scholars at Egerton University, Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management.
In a remarkable stride towards academic enrichment and cross-cultural exchange, we, Naomi Chebiwot Chelanga and Carolyne Nafula Kisaka, are elated to announce our selection for a prestigious 4-month scholarship at the University of Pavia under the esteemed Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility K171 program. This invaluable opportunity not only heralds a transformative phase in our academic pursuits but also signifies a significant milestone in advancing inclusive and nutrition-sensitive agri-food systems across sub-Saharan Africa.
The Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility K171 program stands as a beacon of collaboration, bridging continents and fostering synergistic partnerships between European and African institutions. As doctoral scholars from Egerton University, Kenya, we are deeply honoured to participate in this initiative.
Under the visionary leadership of Professor Maria Sassi from the department of Economics and Management at the University of Pavia, the project embarks on a journey of knowledge exchange and capacity building, engaging universities across diverse sub-Saharan regions, including Uganda, Zambia, Benin, and Ethiopia. Furthermore, we are particularly grateful for the unwavering guidance, support, and mentorship extended to us by Professors Patience Mshenga and Mwanarusi Saidi, the coordinators of this project at Egerton University, who have been instrumental in nurturing our academic aspirations and facilitating our participation in this transformative opportunity.
Our objectives during our tenure at the University of Pavia are manifold. Firstly, we aspire to immerse ourselves in a rich tapestry of academic discourse, engaging with fellow scholars and experts to deepen our understanding of agri-food systems dynamics. Through interdisciplinary dialogue and knowledge sharing, we envisage broadening our perspectives and honing our analytical skills to address complex challenges within the agricultural domain.
Moreover, we are keenly aware of the networking potential inherent in this program. By forging meaningful connections with peers, academics, and industry stakeholders, we endeavour to cultivate enduring collaborations that transcend geographical boundaries. These networks not only enrich our academic endeavours but also pave the way for future research collaborations and professional opportunities.
Crucially, our time at the University of Pavia presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance our doctoral research. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, expert supervision, and diverse academic resources, we are poised to make significant strides in our respective fields of study. Leveraging this conducive environment, we are committed to producing high-quality research outputs that contribute meaningfully to the discourse on inclusive and nutrition-sensitive agri-food systems.
In conclusion, we express our profound gratitude to Egerton University, the Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility K171 program and the University of Pavia for affording us this life-changing opportunity. We approach this journey with humility, determination, and a deep sense of responsibility towards advancing sustainable development goals in our communities and beyond. With unwavering resolve, we pledge to harness the knowledge and experiences gained during our scholarship to effect positive change and foster a more equitable and resilient future for all.
