KARATINA UNIVERSITY AND SOUTHWEST FORESTRY UNIVERSITY TO COLLABORATE ON FUNCTIONAL OILS RESEARCH

On Friday, 20th September 2024, Karatina University took a major step forward in its research agenda by meeting with Southwest Forestry University, China. The meeting, which took place at Karatina University, was attended by Prof. Aizhong Liu, Vice Director of the Key Laboratory for Forest Resources Conservation & Utilization in the Southwest Mountains of China, Ministry of Education. Prof. Liu met with Karatina University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Linus Gitonga, and Prof. Kellen Kiambati, Director of Resource Mobilization & International Programmes, to discuss a groundbreaking research project on the Discovery and Utilization of Functional Oils from Woody Oil Crops in Africa and China.

This collaborative research project, funded by the prestigious National Science Foundation of China, marks a significant scientific venture between the two universities, focusing on the potential of woody oil crops for sustainable development in both regions.

During the meeting, the leadership from both institutions expressed optimism about the potential impact of the project. The research aims to explore the diversity of woody oil crops, which are relatively untapped but hold immense potential for pharmaceutical, nutritional, and industrial applications. Prof. Liu emphasized that this partnership would not only strengthen academic ties but also foster innovation in natural resource utilization. His remarks were echoed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Linus Gitonga, who noted that “This collaboration will position Karatina University as a leader in sustainable research, offering solutions that are not only scientifically relevant but also socially impactful.”  Prof. Gitonga added that the project aligns with Karatina University’s broader vision of fostering international research partnerships that drive innovation and sustainable development.