The newly appointed Chairman of JKUAT Council, Dr. Micah Onsando has said the University will fully deploy its capabilities to contribute to the development goals of Kenya and the world.

Dr. Onsando said JKUAT had resident research and innovation capacity in key areas such as agriculture, engineering, biotechnology, health and information technology, all of which can be tapped to spur Kenya’s socioeconomic transformation.

Dr. Onsando was speaking on Monday December 18, during the JKUAT Council workshop to validate the University’s draft Strategic Plan for the 2023-2027 period.

The Chair of Council noted that the University had followed the due process by embracing a broad-based and consultative approach to develop the draft Strategic Plan.

“JKUAT is the only university that is both technological and agricultural in Kenya. Through the strategic plan, JKUAT will draw from its unique niche areas to serve the development aspirations of the people of Kenya,” Dr. Onsando said.

Onsando who was in November 2023 appointed by Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Ezekiel Machogu to lead JKUAT Council for the next three years, holds a doctorate degree in plant pathology/phytopathology from Kenyatta University. He has vast experience and knowledge in consequential areas such as sustainable agriculture, advocacy, donor relations and leadership.

Prof. Ngumi delivers a brief on the draft Strategic Plan to the Council members

In a brief to the Council, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi noted that the new strategic plan is an embodiment of JKUAT’s commitment to academic and societal advancement. She added that the Plan would provide a road-map that charts the University’s course through an era of unprecedented challenges as well as opportunities.

“This plan is intricately designed to enhance our core academic functions, foster a culture of research and innovation, and fortify our position as a hub for knowledge creation and dissemination,” Prof. Ngumi said.

The Vice Chancellor added that the University Council members bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world insights that would ensure the JKUAT 2023-2027 Strategic Plan becomes a dynamic and responsive blueprint that can successfully guide the University in delivering its mandate.

The Chairperson of the JKUAT Strategic Plan Development Committee, Dr. Esther Waiganjo said the draft Plan had been developed in strict compliance with the provision of national government requirements for the preparation of the fifth generation strategic plans.

The Council validation of the Plan concludes conscientious process of developing the document. The draft Plan has also been reviewed and validated by JKUAT internal and external stakeholders.

JKUAT Council members, senior management and the Strategic Plan Development Committee members