PAUSTI Director, Prof. Magoma addresses the students during orientation. Listening on (from left) is Dr. Jane Ngethe, Prof. Robert Kinya, Mr. James Kiburi and Mr. Evans Atambo of the Ministry of Education

The Pan African University Institute of Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI) domiciled at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) admitted its 10^th cohort of 132 graduate students from 39 African countries, April 3, 2023.

A total of 46 new students were admitted into PhD programs, while the remaining will pursue masters degrees in PAUSTI’s thematic areas. The Institute currently offers post-graduate studies in various fields of science, technology and innovation including mathematics, molecular biology and biotechnology, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.

In welcoming the students to the country, Mr. James Kiburi, the Deputy Director In-charge of University Education at the Ministry of Education, congratulated PAUSTI for its efforts in ensuring that Africa achieves the objectives of Agenda 2063.

He urged the students to be leading examples from their respective countries, as they have been given a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in their respective fields.

“The admission of the 10^th cohort of students and the growth of student numbers underscores PAUSTI’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training to African students in science, technology, and innovation,” said Mr. Kiburi.

While congratulating the students for securing their scholarship at PAUSTI, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi said, “With your admission, you have indeed become critical building blocks in the enviable narrative of the Pan African University; an embodiment of the collective aspirations of the African people through the African Union.”

Assuring PAUSTI of JKUAT’s continued support, Prof. Ngumi in a speech read by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, said JKUAT has provided a pool of highly trained faculty who brings on board diverse knowledge and networks; all of which are critical to the students’ academic and research success.

On his part, PAUSTI Director, Prof. Gabriel Magoma, urged the new students to maintain the academic and research quality of their predecessors.

According to the Director, the admission of such a diverse group of students from across the continent reflects the institute’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. It also highlights the importance of building partnerships and collaborations across borders in achieving Africa’s development objectives.

The Pan African University (PAU) is a flagship project of the African Union that aims to harness higher education, scientific and technological research to drive the continent’s economic development, social integration and global competitive.