Egerton University has taken a significant step in enhancing its impact on agricultural policy by setting up the inaugural board for the Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development. The board held its first meeting at the university's Nairobi office today, led by Professor Bernard Aduda, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, Research, and Extension.
The newly constituted board discussed its terms of reference and outlined a framework to collaborate with the University management and the Council to drive the Institute forward.
The Tegemeo Institute, renowned for its role in shaping public policy and parliamentary legislation, uses empirical research and capacity-building initiatives to address key agricultural challenges in Kenya. The Institute has long been a cornerstone in the country's agricultural sector, helping to influence policies that improve productivity and sustainability. This new board is expected to amplify these efforts and position the Institute for even greater success.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage welcomed the board members, highlighting the importance of teamwork and a shared vision. “I am happy to see you on board and welcome you to the Egerton University family,” he said, encouraging them to work cohesively to take the Institute to new heights.
The inaugural board consists of five members from diverse backgrounds within the agricultural sector: Prof. Bernard Aduda, Dr. Vincent Nyagilo from the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), Agatha Thuo from the Kenya National Farmers Federation (KENAFF), Joan Nthenya Mutile from Agricultural Network, and Prof.Hillary Bett, who chairs the Department of Agribusiness Management and Agricultural Economics at Egerton University.
Prof Kibwage expressed optimism that with the new board, the Tegemeo Institute that was having teething issues will now align its strategicplan with the University overall strategic plan that was recently approved by the Council.
Prof Kibwage expressed optimism that with the new board, the Tegemeo Institute that was having teething issues will now align its strategicplan with the University overall strategic plan that was recently approved by the Council.
"Donor funds must be safe guarded and ensure prudent use of recources at all levels. I believe that you have a heavy task ahead to support the University in realising its stratgic objectives, mission and vision to transform lives through quality education," said Prof. Kibwage
Prof. Kibwage also guided the budding board in conceptualising its mandate even as its streamlines operations at the Nairobi based research institute affiliated to the Njoro- Nakuru based Main Campus.
The board's focus will be to strengthen the Institute’s role in guiding policy and providing insights that align with national and regional agricultural goals. This collaborative effort marks a new chapter for the Tegemeo Institute as it continues to lead in research and policy development in Kenya's agricultural sector.
Members discussed about their oversite role on activities and resources mostly from the University and the donors funds. Some other areas the Institute engages in is consultancies.
The board's focus will be to strengthen the Institute’s role in guiding policy and providing insights that align with national and regional agricultural goals. This collaborative effort marks a new chapter for the Tegemeo Institute as it continues to lead in research and policy development in Kenya's agricultural sector.
Members discussed about their oversite role on activities and resources mostly from the University and the donors funds. Some other areas the Institute engages in is consultancies.
By Kurian Musa
Communications Officer,
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization,
Egerton University,
P.O Box 536-Njoro.
Mobile Phone: +254723537167
Office Tel: +254202006065
