Varsity Hosts Chinese and Kenyan Research Leaders to Explore Strategic Partnerships

On April 7, 2025 Chuka University received a high-level delegation from the Sino-African Joint Research Centre, Wuhan Botanical Garden, China Academy of Sciences, and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), during a courtesy call aimed at fostering international research collaboration. The visiting team, led by Prof. Yan Xue from the China Academy of Sciences and accompanied by Prof. Erustus Kanga, EBS, HSC, the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service, held discussions with the University Management chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei.

The parties held in-depth discussions exploring potential partnerships in key areas including sustainable agriculture, biodiversity research, ecosystem restoration, and environmental conservation. The meeting also delved into prospects of an exchange programme targeting both students and academic staff, aimed at fostering global research cooperation and cultural understanding.

Prof. Mutembei welcomed the initiative, terming it a milestone in strengthening Chuka University’s global linkages and advancing its research and training capacities as an upcoming world class University. He emphasized the University’s readiness to engage in joint efforts that align with Kenya’s sustainable development goals and environmental stewardship agenda as well as empowering communities through applicable research. Prof. Yan Xue expressed optimism about building a long-term partnership with Chuka University, citing shared interests in ecological protection and scientific innovation. On his part, Prof. Kanga reiterated KWS’s commitment to supporting collaborations that promote scientific innovation, ecological preservation, and knowledge exchange for mutual benefit. Prof. Kanga, a conservation expert, emphasized the need for regional universities to link with global research institutions to promote sustainable development and knowledge exchange. The visit marked the beginning of discussions towards formalizing future engagements that could position Chuka University as a regional hub for research in ecological sciences and sustainable agriculture.