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MMUST Embarks On Mentoring The Next Generation Of Scientists In Science, Technology, Engeneering And Mathematics
The participants of the STEM workshop.
The participants of the STEM workshop.
MMUSTE Team during the workshop.
Prof. Josephine Ngaira and Dr. Tecla Sum during the conference.
The participants of the workshop.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in collaboration with the International School of Climate Migration (ISCM)-UK is delivering month-long lectures on cutting-edge topical issues on Climate Change. The key objectives of this seminar that is hosted at SOAS University of London are to further research around the climate migration nexus, to facilitate an educational forum for critical dialogue, offer evidence-based learning, and solutions-driven engagement, expand the network of scholars and advocate for climate mobility space. The lectures began on 5th June 2023 and will be ongoing until 5th July 2023.
The seminar is Co-hosted by Earth Refuge and the Law, Environment and Development Centre, the Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies and the Centre for Human Rights Law and is attended by more than 80 scholars, students and participants from all over the world. The ISCM seeks to equip participants with the tools needed to critically analyze the complexities of climate-induced migration and displacement as they interact with challenges and opportunities for sustainable development and the protection of human rights.
MMUST is represented by Dr. Nicodemus Nyandiko, a researcher and a lecturer in the Department of Disaster Management and Sustainable Development whose presentation will be based on ‘Enhancing Resilience and Adaptive Capacity to Compounding Impacts of Climate Change and Forced Displacement: An integrated human mobility ‘toolbox” policy approach’.
The outcome of this presentation is to enable learners to grasp varying approaches to building and measuring the resilience of vulnerable communities against climate change impacts, natural disasters, and related forced displacement. It also considers the role of affected communities in mitigation, adaptation and resilience-building.
Dr. Nyandiko’s presentation allows researchers to unpack the nexus of policy issues in the context of environmental (im)mobilities, to survey a host of mitigation, adaptation, sustainable development, disaster risk reduction policies, and strategies and to consider their impact on (im)mobilities, to gain insight into current policy debates on loss and damage.
The other presentations during this seminar focus on various topics such as; ‘Multiple and Complex Drivers and Agency in Climate-Related (Im)Mobilities’. This is aimed at developing conceptual tools for grappling with the multiple and complex drivers of climate-related migration and displacement, comprehending environmental (im)mobilities within a broader mobility spectrum, and gaining insight into key terminological debates on the climate change-environment-mobility nexus.
‘Understanding the Climate Migration, Conflict, and Violence Link’
The presentation is meant to equip the participant with knowledge to understand key debates pertaining to the correlation versus causality of climate change and violent conflict, and their impacts on human mobility. It addresses the various approaches taken by scholars and practitioners in response to the climate change, migration, and conflict nexus, to understand the relevance of violence in and across climate change-related events
The seminar seeks to respond to the gaps in teaching and thinking on climate migration and equip researchers with insights and approaches to dealing with the complexity of climate change. It is a timely venture that encourages a new generation of scholars to engage in collaborative research to contribute critical perspectives and knowledge to the development of cross-sectorial solutions to climate change.
By Linet Owuor
A section of the participants following presentations at the conference.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s 16th International Multi-Disciplinary Virtual Conference commenced on 14th June, 2023 with an effort to combat the risks of climate change in the region as well as the globe. The conference themed, ‘Climate Change: Impacts and Responses’, brought together scholars from various parts of the planet who are working tirelessly to save the ecosystem. This event which was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, was organized by the Directorate of Research and Postgraduate Studies in conjunction with the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA).
The three-day conference which will end on Friday, 16th June, 2023, focuses on: climate change and governance, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Security, Health, Communication, Technology, Finance, Vulnerable Populations as well as Research, Innovation and Education.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Shibairo Climate noted that climate change is increasingly becoming a pressing concern globally which should be treated as an immediate threat. He acknowledged that the University and other institutions have been at the forefront of conducting scientific research on climate change which are geared towards establishing the causes and consequences of climate change, development of innovative solutions and exploring sustainable alternatives.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo speaking giving his opening remark.
“As a university, we should champion sustainable practices for the sake of the next generation. I encourage you to continue demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of sustainable practices, which will inspire and motivate the community to adopt similar measures. I believe this conference will lead us to develop our own climate change policy which will effectively promote this cause. Let us grow partnerships with communities, NGOs, businesses, and government agencies to implement collaborative climate action initiatives,” Urged Prof. Shibairo.
Further, Prof. Shibairo advocated for smart agricultural practices and guaranteed his support towards the projects which are geared towards promoting the Green Circular Economy. He challenged the engineering department to innovate electric transport systems to reduce carbon emissions.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Prof. Charles Mutai giving a remark at the conference.
According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Prof. Charles Mutai, this conference comes at a time when we are in dire need of solutions to the challenges posed by the effects of climate change. He added that humanity is suffering due to rapid climate change and this event will enable us to find possible solutions to it.
“The effects of climate change have tremendously changed our lifestyle. There is a need for multi-disciplinary researchers to address the complex environmental problems of our time. It is our commitment to offer long lasting solutions to save humanity, and this conference clearly sends a message that there is a way forward to save the ecosystem. Through this conference, our researchers will gain an arsenal of skills in research that are transferable across the planet,” stated Prof. Mutai.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance) Prof. John Kuria Thuo pointed out that climate change has immense effects on the global economy and all activities across the world. In addition, he stated that this conference has the potential to provide diverse initiatives to save our planet and increase our food basket.
“Developing countries have contributed least to the management of climate change. For this reason, we are the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. However, failure to address the challenges would be disastrous for the whole planet. I urge scholars attending this conference to come up with research ideas that can address a planet-based diet, food wastage, deforestation and renewable energy,” said Prof. Thuo.
The Acting Principal of TVET Institute, Prof. Basil Ong’or speaking during the conference.
Reiterating Prof. Thuo, the Acting Principal of TVET Institute, Prof. Basil Ong’or who was representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha acknowledged that Climate change is having substantial physical impacts in the regions across the world including the institutions of higher learning.
“Solutions to the effects of climate change require a complex synthesis of ideas from a variety of disciplines in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Humanities. MMUST has played a crucial role in educating students, faculty and the broader community about climate change. We have achieved this largely through incorporating climate change into various academic disciplines as well as review of our curricula to integrate climate change and sustainability across various disciplines,” stated Prof. Ong’or.
The Registrar (Planning, research and Innovation)- Prof. Alice Ndiema stated that climate change is an inter-disciplinary issue and solving it requires multi-disciplinary cooperation. Moreover, she said that the conference will increase our knowledge and provide a platform for the University to share knowledge with communities and other stakeholders. She commended researchers who are committed to finding solutions to save livelihoods. “Research impacts on climate change, as well as human health and environmental practices. Let us utilize scientific information and tools to effectively, equitably, and sustainably tackle the climate crisis,” she stated.
The Director Research and Postgraduate Support, Prof. Peter Bukhala addressing participants.
Expressing his delight for hosting the event, the Director Research and Postgraduate Support, Prof. Peter Bukhala said that the conference is not only designed to appreciate the efforts of researchers but also to celebrate their achievements in finding solutions to the global crisis. He thanked the management for its unwavering support towards this cause. Similarly, the Dean, SDMHA- Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa acknowledged that the conference is here to reveal how science and governance can play a crucial role in combating climate change. He revealed that MMUST’s SDMHA is the only faculty offering programs in disaster management at all levels.
Scholars have showcased exciting presentations tailored towards combating the risks of climate change. These were aligned with the seventeen (17) United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Some of the notable presentations include: ‘Convergence of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Modern Science in Combating Climate Change’ by H.E Dr. Wilber Ottichilo- the Governor of Vihiga County, ‘The Politics of Climate Change’ by Prof. David Monda of City University- New york, ‘The Burning Planet Earth: Where Will Africa be in 2023?’ by Prof. Josephine Ngaira of MMUST, ‘What will it take to Deliver Low Carbon Transport System?’ by Dr. Maleki Khayesi from WHO- Geneva, ‘Climate Change and Security in the Horn of Africa Region’ by Dr. Cliff Obwogi of International Peace Support Training Centre- Karen, ‘Climate Change and Water Resources Management’ by Prof. Eng. Emmanuel Kipkorir of Moi University, as well as ‘Exploitation of Natural Resources and Climate Change’ by Dr. Christopher Aura of KEMFRI.
Prof. Josephine Ngaira making a presentation on, ‘The Burning Planet Earth: Where Will Africa Be in 2023?’
The highly-attended conference consisted of scholars from the Ministries, County Governments, Business Associations, and the Higher Institutions of learning in Kenya including: Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Maseno University, Garissa University, Kenyatta University, Moi University, Maasai Mara University. The other parts of the globe were also represented by scholars from the United Kingdom, United States of America, South Africa, Switzerland, Finland and Namibia.
Certainly, this conference enables professionals and practitioners from different fields of expertise to share knowledge and provide long lasting solutions to the global threat. Therefore, we shall manage to save livelihoods as well as the ecosystem.
By Verna Awuor Kungu
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
The Principal Investigator, Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda, gives her remarks during the Stakeholder Workshop at Kakamega Sports Club.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s researchers have championed proper documentation of gold mining, with the aim of improving the business in Western, Kenya. This was revealed during a one-day Stakeholder Workshop, involving miners from Ikolomani Constituency, which took place on Tuesday, 13th June, 2023 at the Kakamega Sports Club. The Workshop was courtesy of a URF-funded project titled ‘Effects of Gold Mining on Education, Environment, Human Health and Social Constructs in Kakamega County, Western Kenya’.
According to the project’s Principal Investigator, Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda, one of the main goals of this research is to generate information which will allow for policy formation regarding gold mining in Kakamega County. “Universities are mandated to solve issues of the communities surrounding them, which is what we hope to achieve at the end of this research. We understand that small-scale miners are facing a lot of challenges and we hope to come up with solutions that will alleviate this,” said Prof. Omukunda, adding that her research team will embark on a capacity building exercise after data collection.
Prof. Bukhala presenting at the Workshop.
“Gold mining should be conducted in a structured manner in order for the entire community to reap the benefits. There needs to be a policy, both at the County and National levels, advocating for improved mining business,” stated the Director of Research and Postgraduate Support, Prof. Peter Bukhala, who is also a Co-investigator in the project. Further, Prof. Bukhala pointed out that gold mining is a very lucrative business, but lacks proper artisanal policies. “Thank you for being resourceful and I encourage you all to keep the conversation from this Workshop going,” he added.
The Chairperson of artisanal miners, Ikolomani Constituency, Mr. Patrick Makhule, reiterated that the mining business should be formalized, and added that small-scale miners should be trained especially on matters of safety as well as environmental conservation. “Miners have been losing lives in shafts due to lack of supervision, hence the establishment of a resilient team. This is a self-regulating group that deals with safety training, conflict resolution, site inspection among other things,” said Mr. Makhule.
Mr. Patrick Makhule gives his remarks.
“I look forward to this collaboration, and I foresee a long-term relationship between MMUST and the people of Ikolomani Constituency,” said the Chairperson of MMUST’s Department of Economics, and a Co-investigator in the project, Dr. Umulkher Ali. Dr. Ali said that there is a need for miners’ legal representation, adding that they should be empowered to pursue education, which is important as far as investments and good record keeping is concerned.
During the Stakeholder Workshop, miners appreciated the University for reaching out to them and echoed that they would wish for Ikolomani Constituency to lead in the gold mining sector in the country. They shared the various challenges that they encounter in their line of work, including, lack of proper equipment and exploitation by investors. Subsequently, they emphasized the need for safety training, seeing that miners use Mercury to separate gold from other minerals, which may cause adverse effects to human health.
A section of the Ikolomani gold miners during the Stakeholder Workshop.
Other Co-investigators in this project are; Dr. Christine Wanjala, Dr. Iddah Maulid Ali, Dr. Pamela Buhere, Dr. Issa Kweyu, Dr. Joseph Owino, Dr. Peter Cherop and Mr. Peter Nyongesa.
By Ivy Alivitsa and Getrude Ajiambo
Photos by Wangari Wambugu
Dr. Humphrey Agevi, a lecturer at the Department of Biological Sciences during the meeting.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is set to collaborate with ECO2librium in restoring Kakamega Tropical Rainforest through the Carbon Accelerator Grant from Terraformation. This is through the grant that the two institutions applied for last year, where MMUST applied through a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences, Dr. Humphrey Agevi. Since the two institutions applied to support the same ecosystem, Terraformation organization agreed that they will work together courtesy of the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two institutions.
ECO2librium is a conservation-based company that undertakes projects, develops products, and initiates activities aimed to conserve the environment and improve people’s livelihoods. Some of the activities they carry out include agroforestry to support sustainable forestry, and supporting communities in installing efficient energy cook stoves.
The team from Terraformation visited MMUST on 12th June 2023, to conduct a feasibility of the project and to engage the partners that will be involved in the execution of the restoration project. The project will be carried out in collaboration with MUILESHI Community Forest Association (CFA), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI).
Mr. Damien Kuhn from Terraformation and the Chairperson, Department of Biological Sciences- Dr. Philip Ogutu during the meeting at SPD 314.
Commenting on the project, Dr. Agevi noted that MMUST will contribute to the project through soil analysis, quantification of the seed bank in degraded areas to provide information on trees that initially existed in the region, capacity building of communities, development of training manuals on tree seedlings establishment and management, carbon measurement and modeling, Income generating activities (IGA), seed collection and propagation. MMUST postgraduate students will be attached to the project to help in data collection and field monitoring and measuring of carbon.
Additionally, Prof. Harrison Tsingalia noted that the forest cover has been dwindling over the past years despite concerted efforts to conserve it. He assured that this project is timely as it will contribute greatly to restoring forest cover and supporting livelihood components, especially of the Forest Adjacent Communities (FAC) who will be supported to grow trees on their farms for their own use and sale.
Mr. Adam Finck from Terraformation explains a point during the meeting.
Similarly, Mr. Hardley Malema from ECO2librium noted that the project will support tree nurseries and increase their capacities to produce more seedlings. The community groups will provide labor during tree planting, scouting to help protect the planted forests, and conducting inventories. Reiterating his counterpart, Mr. Chris Amutabi alluded that the project will also have non-carbon revenue streams to help communities generate their own income through activities like beekeeping, value addition on guavas, and ecotourism. Terraformation will also provide Terraware software to help monitor and calculate the amount of carbon in the planted trees.
The Chairperson of, the Department of Biological Sciences- Dr. Philip Ogutu noted this is a key project that will support their students for practical learning adding that the Department is ready to fully support it. Other members present were: Mr. Victor Otieno from Centre for Ecosystem Restoration Kenya (CERK), Mr. Damien Kuhn, and Mr. Adam Finck from Terraformation.
Given its terminal stakes, reversing climate change should be the highest global priority. This can only be achieved through reforestation that this project encourages. It is dedicated to restoring the world's forests to stabilize our climate, revive ecosystems, and build thriving communities.
By Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
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