JKUAT is set to establish a hub for research data and outputs in a revolutionary partnership with the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. This will go a long way in ensuring that students within the institution are exposed practically to real-life data and its analytical outputs, while the quality of learning and research outcomes at the university stands to receive a significant boost.
A Joint Effort to Advance Learning
The partnership between JKUAT and KNBS is an important leap in the development of mechanisms that bring academia in tune with the current needs. In fact, when the research data and outputs hub becomes operational, students will have unlimited access to all-rounded national data that will give them a hands-on experiences in data analysis and interpretation. This will raise the bar regarding the quality of education and prepare students better for the job market.
Developing Institutional Relations Through Capacity Building
Besides establishing the research center, JKUAT and KNBS are both determined to make the partnership even stronger through various activities including capacity building for staff and students, students’ exchange programs, and joint research activities. This will be a great means of improving skills and knowledge of personnel from both institutions, while at the same time inculcating the culture of innovation and excellence in research studies.
Commitment to Kenya’s Development Aspirations
KNBS Director General Dr. Macdonald George Obudho noted that the partnership was of utmost importance in the quest by Kenya to realize its development aspirations, during the signing of the collaborative agreement at JKUAT main campus in Juja, Kiambu County. He stated that KNBS stands out as a crucial partner in informed impactful decision-making and resource allocation, given its status as the main repository of national data.
Dr. Obudho noted, “Our institutions have resolved to amplify their synergy in supporting Kenya’s development aspirations through knowledge generation and application.”
A Legacy of Constructive Engagements
While JKUAT and KNBS have retained close collaboration, particularly on the implementation of national priority projects like the assembling of smart devices for the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census, their elevation to yet another collaboration signifies mutual commitment to the creation of better research and monitoring through the exchange and analysis of statistical data.
Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, Vice Chancellor of JKUAT was happy with the progress set by the partnership: In remarks delivered by Prof. Robert Kinyua, she said, “We are happy to see the elevation of this partnership as our institutions chart new pathways of collaboration on statistical data exchange and analysis for research and monitoring.”
Future Prospects of Partnership
The just-inked deal paves way for a structured and long-term engagement between JKUAT and KNBS on a wide range of areas that include collection, analysis, dissemination, and utilization of statistical data. Other areas include research focused on the production and distribution of statistical information. It is envisaged that the collaboration will realize relevant insights and innovations that will go a long way in Kenya’s socio-economic development.