Zetech University has marked a significant milestone in its international outreach by becoming a registered member of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) Network. Zetech University’s inclusion in this esteemed network was officially recognised at the 2nd RUFORUM Triennial Conference, which took place from August 12th to 16th, 2024, at the University of Namibia in Windhoek. The conference, themed "Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action," brought together leading figures in the field of agricultural education and research.
Representing Zetech University at the conference was the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Njenga Munene. His participation underscored the university’s commitment to advancing agribusiness extensions, education and research, and highlighted its strategic goal of forging stronger international partnerships. The conference provided an invaluable platform for dialogue on enhancing agritech education ecosystems across the continent, aligning with Zetech University’s mission to impacting society through research-driven education that integrates innovation, technology and entrepreneurship.
RUFORUM, established in 2004 by a group of ten Vice Chancellors, is a prominent consortium of universities dedicated to building capacity in agriculture across Africa. As of December 2022, RUFORUM boasts a membership of 170 universities spanning 40 countries. The network, officially registered as an International NGO (FORR78950) in Uganda, operates under the coordination of a Secretariat based at Makerere University in Kampala. This organization evolved from the Forum on Agricultural Resource Husbandry program of the Rockefeller Foundation, reflecting a rich history of commitment to agricultural development.
In July 2014, RUFORUM further cemented its role in regional development by signing a cooperation agreement with the African Union. This partnership supports the implementation of the African Union Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy (STISA 2024), emphasising the forum’s dedication to advancing science and technology across the continent.
For Zetech University, joining RUFORUM represents a strategic leap towards expanding its international presence and enhancing its collaborative efforts in research and education. The university’s new membership aligns with its goal to grow its network and influence across Africa. RUFORUM’s activities, including networking and coordination among member institutions, resourcing, advocacy, capacity building and community development, resonate strongly with Zetech University’s goals. By engaging with RUFORUM, Zetech University aims to enhance its collaborative programs, thereby providing its students with a more comprehensive and globally informed learning experience.
As a new member of the RUFORUM network, Zetech University is poised to leverage the forum’s extensive resources and connections to foster academic partnerships and research initiatives across Africa. This membership not only bolsters the university’s international profile but also opens up new avenues for its faculty and students to engage in meaningful collaborations that drive innovation and address common challenges in research and education.
In summary, Zetech University’s induction into RUFORUM marks a promising new chapter in its journey towards achieving greater international collaboration and impact in agritech research, extensions and education. By aligning with RUFORUM’s mission and participating in its network, Zetech University is set to make significant strides in enhancing its academic offerings and research capabilities on a continental scale.