The Canadian Trade High Commissioner Visits University of Kabianga, Pledges Support for Strategic Partnerships and Innovation

The University of Kabianga had the honour of hosting the Canadian Trade High Commissioner, Mrs. Charity Kabaya in a high-level engagement aimed at strengthening international partnerships and enhancing academic collaboration.

Mrs. Kabaya was warmly received by the Chairman of the University Council Prof. Bosire Mwebi, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Eric Koech(Ph.D,MBS) flanked by Deputy Vice Chancellors Prof. Maurice Oduor and Prof. Paul Onsare. The visit marked a significant milestone in the University’s ongoing efforts to foster global linkages and internationalise its academic and research agenda.

In her keynote address, Mrs. Kabaya emphasised the importance of building strong, sustainable partnerships between Canadian universities and the University of Kabianga. She reiterated Canada’s commitment to supporting African higher education institutions through knowledge exchange, capacity-building programmes, student and faculty exchange initiatives, and collaborative research projects.

The High Commissioner praised the University's leadership for its visionary approach to education, research, and innovation, and expressed her intention to be an active partner in propelling the institution to greater heights. She noted that such international collaborations are crucial in equipping students and scholars with global competencies and in driving forward solutions to shared global challenges.

During her visit, Mrs. Kabaya was taken on a guided tour of the University’s innovation hubs and key facilities where she interacted with students and staff and was introduced to several notable innovations developed within the University including:

• Green Leather – an eco-friendly alternative to conventional leather developed by Dr. Wanyonyi.

• Pinez Natural Wine – a value-added product made from pineapple peels innovated by Dr. Shadrack Mule.

• Knowie Chatbot – an AI-based educational assistant developed by Dr. Patrick Bii to enhance learning and digital engagement.

• Organic Pesticide – derived from wheat, offering a sustainable solution for pest control in agriculture.

• A Water Filtration Plant – created by University of Kabianga students to improve access to clean, safe drinking water.

The High Commissioner also visited the University's fruit juice processing plant and the water refill station, both of which reflect the institution’s commitment to Entrepreneurial Training, Value Addition, and Community Impact.

In addition to the main campus, Mrs. Kabaya also visited the University’s Kapkatet Campus, where she was warmly welcomed by the Dean of School of Health Sciences Dr. Faith Onyangore. At Kapkatet, the High Commissioner toured various sections of the facility including the Skills Laboratory, which plays a vital role in hands-on learning and practical skills development for students in health sciences and related fields.

The University leadership expressed their appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed their readiness to engage with Canadian institutions in areas such as Climate-smart Agriculture, Innovation, Technology Transfer, Health Sciences and Research Collaboration ; key pillars that align with both the University's strategic objectives and Canada's development priorities.

This landmark visit not only reaffirmed the University of Kabianga’s growing global outlook but also laid a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial and transformative partnership with Canadian institutions aimed at driving innovation, academic excellence, and sustainable development.