JKUAT Strengthens Research Collaboration Through TWAS–UNESCO Grant Opportunities Session.
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) under UNESCO, in collaboration with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), hosted an enlightening session on Grant Opportunities for Students and Faculty at the Innovation and Prototyping Integrated Centre (IPIC) on 28th October 2025. The event brought together students, researchers, staff, and faculty members eager to learn about international research funding prospects and capacity-building initiatives.
The session led by Ms. Payal Patel, Associate Program Officer at The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), who outlined the wide range of funding opportunities available for postgraduate students and researchers. She emphasized that the program not only provides financial support but also opens doors to collaborations with international organizations. Its main goal, she noted, is to build capacity and equip researchers with the skills needed to strengthen their research and enhance their chances of securing funding.
“There are many all-around opportunities available for scientists; take the opportunity when it’s offered,” Ms. Patel encouraged.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Peter Kahenya, Director Research & Innovation in JKUAT, applauded TWAS for its continued collaboration and support of JKUAT researchers. He highlighted that five(5) researchers from JKUAT have successfully received grants from TWAS, which has greatly advanced their academic and research pursuits.
Dr. Kahenya further explained that the University, through the Research, Production & Extension Division actively supports researchers throughout the research cycle, from the Development of Grant Management (DGM) process to ethical approvals and dissemination of research findings. He also mentioned that JKUAT provides a peer-reviewed journal platform where researchers can publish and share their work with the wider scientific community.
The event was coordinated by recipients of the TWAS research grant in JKUAT led by Dr. Cecilia Mbithe Mweu Director -IBR, Dr. Eunice Njeri, a lecturer at the School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT) and Founder of the JKUAT Social Robotics Research Lab, Prof. Arnold Onyango, Dean School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Dr. Juliah Wangari from the Department of Mining, Materials and Petroleum Engineering and Dr. Juliah Khayeli Senior Lecturer & Bacteriophage Researcher in JKUAT, all whose experience offered participants firsthand insight into the benefits and impact of the program.
The interactive session not only reinforced JKUAT’s partnership with TWAS but also motivated students and faculty members to explore and apply for international research opportunities that drive innovation, knowledge exchange, and sustainable development.
