Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) has unveiled a modern molecular and microbiology laboratory to boost scientific research in the Lake Region.
The laboratory equipped at a cost of Sh33 Million through the National Research Fund (NRF) Infrastructure Support, will boost research in fresh water, human health and molecular microbiology.
The modern technology equipment in the lab will also enable researchers and students undertake advanced cell research on plants and animals through DNA and RNA tests.
Speaking during the commissioning of the laboratory, State Department for University Education Principal Secretary, Amb. Simon Nabukwesi, said the laboratory is a testimony of commitment by the government in supporting priority areas of science, technology and innovation.
The National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI) has developed the country’s scientific, technological, and innovation priorities in relation to the government’s economic and social policies, as well as the country’s international commitments as mandated by the STI Act of 2013. The Draft priorities has been developed in consultation with stakeholders and benchmarked with global best practice.
Amb. Nabukwesi observed that cell research is vital for society that wants to advance adding that it is from such research infrastructure that innovations that contribute to the economic and social development of the country emerge.
He said the laboratory will support research excellence by providing students and scientists with cutting edge research skills and knowledge that can continuously be applied to avoid skill loss.
“A good number of you (academic staff) are educated in foreign countries where the laboratories are equipped with sophisticated equipment. When you come back and you are unable to practice the same, the knowledge acquired is lost overtime and that’s why we are suffering as a country,” Amb. Nabukwesi said.
The PS commended JOOUST, under the stewardship of Prof Stephen Agong, for their commitment and efforts in ensuring that the university laboratories are equipped through partnership with the NRF and acknowledged the role played by the university management in achieving the milestone.
He said that the government is committed to improve productivity of research funding by encouraging enhanced migration of science from laboratories to the market place, improving how it strategically aids investments in public, good science that underpins the economy, directly boosts economic growth.
Source: MyGov Issue No. 50/2021-2022.