JOOUST and ICR-CAAS in groundbreaking agricultural collaboration
In a significant development that promises to drive agricultural innovation and scientific cooperation to new heights, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) and the Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (ICR-CAAS) in China have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) setting the stage for a pioneer partnership program that seeks to harness collective resources for the mutual benefit and advancement of their respective nations.
ICR-CAAS, a state-owned research institute established in 1957 by the People's Republic of China, has long been at the forefront of tackling critical challenges in cotton production. The institute's mandate includes applied and applied basic research, the sponsorship of research projects in China, the promotion of international cooperation and technical exchange, and the advancement of cotton technical development.
The team from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences led by Professor Xu Liu, visited JOOUST on the 29th October 2023. Prof. Liu noted that the collaboration would be significant in addressing cotton production challenges in this part of the region as well as conducting joint research on cotton. The team was received by Professor Christopher Gor, the Dean of Students, who was representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academics, Student Affairs and Research. Prof. Gor reiterated the need for community involvement as a key pillar for empowering the community and enhancing their livelihood. “It is very important that any research that we conduct as an Institution has to impact the community.” Said Prof. Gor.
The collaboration between these two institutions was initiated by Dr. Richard Magwanga, Director Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP) during his stint as a student at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The partnership is founded on several key principles including:Conservation of Natural Resources, Shared Vision and Mission, Technical Knowledge and Skills, Local and National Development andAdaptation to Global Changes.
The MOU seeks to establish a mutually beneficial academic and scientific cooperation between ICR-CAAS and JOOUST. It aims to facilitate the exchange of resources between the two organizations, fostering a culture of sharing and growth, scientific advancements through the development of molecular diagnostic tools to identify the molecular basis for cotton diseases, hosts, salt tolerance, and drought tolerance, Training and Research andJoint Research. The parties committed to empowering communities and enhancing livelihoods through their collaborative efforts. The partnership envisages a strong emphasis on the exchange of relevant materials, reports, publications, information, and technical expertise. - Others will include:academic synergy, shared resources and scholarship opportunities.
The MOU’s shelf life will be five years dating from the day of signing, with the possibility of amendments or modifications through mutual consent.
In an era marked by global challenges and opportunities, this partnership between JOOUST and ICR-CAAS exemplifies the power of international collaboration to drive positive change, advance scientific knowledge, and contribute to sustainable development.
