By Kurian Musa
Egerton University proudly hosted Prof. Wang Yuanchao, Deputy President for Academic and Research at Nanjing University, during his recent visit to the institution. The visit was a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Egerton University and Nanjing University, which has spanned over three decades.
Accompanied by a delegation of esteemed scholars, including Zhao Yeye, Feng Rong, Liu Liang, and Zhou Goudong, Prof. Wang’s visit aimed to deepen collaborative ties and explore new opportunities for academic and research partnerships.
The delegation began their visit with a courtesy call to Egerton University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, where they discussed ongoing projects and potential areas of collaboration. Egerton University Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Research and Extension Prof. Bernard Aduda welcomed his Nanjing Counterpart.
Thereafter, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Finance, and Planning, Prof. Richard Mulwa, guided the visitors on a tour of Egerton’s key facilities.
Major Highlights of the tour included; A visit to the Egerton University Agro-science Park: A hub of innovation, the park showcases Egerton’s commitment to advancing agricultural research and technology. Prof. Wang took photos against the epitaphs showcasing the history of joint projects at the Agro-science park in seed variety, selection and development.
“We can still work on new collaborations to come up with the drought tolerant and disease resistant seed varieties,” explained Prof. Mulwa to his guest. He explained to him the partnership with other leading regional institutions like Kilimo Trust , which is housed at the Egerton’s Science park. The Science park, Prof Wang’ was told is led by Prof. Paul Kimurto who was in Nairobi Kenya Innovation Week showcasing innovations and breeding breakthroughs on new seeds.
Also a spectacular visit to the The Molecular Laboratory: A Chinese-funded facility and the only one of its kind in East and Central Africa, this laboratory represents a cornerstone of the partnership between the two universities. Prof Mulwa explained how the lab has not only assisted Kenyan students but also from neighbouring countries like Tanzania and Uganda.
Prof. Wang expressed admiration for Egerton’s state-of-the-art infrastructure and lauded the university’s dedication to fostering cutting-edge research. “Egerton University is a beacon of innovation in the region. Our partnership has yielded incredible results, and we are eager to strengthen this collaboration further,” he remarked.
One of the notable moments of the visit was the announcement of a postdoctoral opportunity at Nanjing University for Ms. Lilian Okiro, a PhD candidate in Plant Biotechnology from Egerton’s Molecular Laboratory. Prof. Wang invited her to join his team, citing her exceptional academic contributions and potential for impactful research.
This visit reaffirmed the shared vision between the two universities to drive innovation, foster academic excellence, and tackle global challenges through collaborative research. Egerton University remains committed to nurturing these partnerships to enhance its global impact and strengthen its academic and research capabilities.
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