Machakos University Strengthens Industry-Academia Linkages Through Visit to KALRO-AMRI Katumani

Machakos University continues to advance its commitment to Competency-Based Education (CBE) through strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing practical learning and skills development. In line with this vision, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joyce J. Agalo, accompanied by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs) and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration, Planning and Finance), paid a courtesy call to the Director of the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization – AMRI Institute, Katumani.

During the visit, She expressed sincere appreciation to KALRO for hosting the Students Association of Machakos University (SAMU) Governing Council during their induction programme. She noted that such engagements provide valuable exposure and leadership development opportunities, while also strengthening the link between student leadership and institutional partners.

The discussions emphasized the importance of aligning university training with the principles of Competency-Based Education, which focuses on equipping learners with practical skills, knowledge application, and industry-relevant competencies. The Vice-Chancellor highlighted that collaborations with institutions such as KALRO are instrumental in bridging the gap between theoretical instruction and hands-on experience.

On their part, the KALRO-AMRI Institute leadership welcomed the partnership and expressed readiness to collaborate with Machakos University in various agricultural research and training projects. The Institute affirmed its commitment to supporting student learning through practical exposure, mentorship, and participation in ongoing research initiatives.

This collaboration is expected to significantly benefit students, especially those pursuing agricultural courses, by enhancing their technical skills, innovation capacity, and employability. Through joint programmes, field attachments, and research engagements, students will gain valuable competencies aligned with the demands of the modern agricultural sector.

Machakos University remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships that support the implementation of Competency-Based Education, ensuring that its graduates are not only academically proficient but also industry-ready and capable of contributing effectively to national and global development.