At the 2nd RUFORUM Triennial Conference, Egerton University's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, joined Gulu University's Prof. George Openjuru in a panel discussion reflecting on the impact of TAGDev 1.0. Prof. Kibwage emphasized the transformational changes brought by the program at Egerton University, highlighting how agriculture, often associated with poverty, has been repositioned as a lucrative field for young people. Through TAGDev 1.0, the University addressed the skills gap in the job market by embracing experiential learning, which deepened community engagement and impact.
The program also fostered international collaborations, bringing new ideas to Egerton University. One of the significant shifts included the adoption of new teaching methodologies, benefiting both academic staff and students. Additionally, the University made strides in inclusivity by enabling new mothers and persons living with disabilities to continue their studies through improved infrastructure. Prof. Kibwage also pointed out the importance of embracing horticulture as a viable source of income, particularly in addressing food and nutrition security in Kenya, where land subdivisions are common.
Egerton University's partnership with Gulu University and Mastercard Foundation in implementing TAGDev 1.0 has laid a strong foundation for the future, as evidenced by the successful launch of TAGDev 2.0 at the conference.
By Agnes Mwangi
VC Prof. Isaac Kibwage posing with the Egerton team and partners from the University of Embu and Pwani University after the successful launch of TAGDev 2.0 at the 2nd RUFORUM Triennial Conference. The team, committed to advancing agricultural innovation and inclusivity, celebrated the achievements of TAGDev 1.0 and looked forward to the continued impact of TAGDev 2.0. |