JKUAT Professor Robert Gituru Honored in China for Distinguished Research
A Kenyan college professor has been honored for his efforts in advancing science and technology alongside a Chinese academy.
Prof Robert Gituru, serving as the African director at the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre at JKUAT, received recognition from the Chinese Academy of Science for his distinguished research.
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JKUAT stated that Prof Gituru was acknowledged for his significant contribution to fostering a new model of China-Africa science and technology collaboration through the Sajorec initiative.
As the first African recipient of this award, his collaborative research endeavors with CAS-affiliated scientists and institutions, coupled with his training experiences in China, were highlighted as key factors leading to this achievement.
According to the university’s statement, Gituru played a pivotal role in the establishment and effective operation of the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre, representing one of CAS’s earliest overseas institutions and China’s premier comprehensive science and education entity abroad.
This initiative played a vital role in shaping a fresh framework for science and technology cooperation between China and Africa during CAS’s initial endeavors to establish international science and education bases.
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Upon receiving the award, Gituru emphasized the continued focus of the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre on biodiversity conservation, ecological protection, environmental preservation, and modern agriculture demonstration, alongside bolstering remote sensing platforms.
In collaboration with CAS scientists, Gituru is engaged in the exploration and documentation of Kenya’s flora. His efforts have led to the discovery of two new plant species within Kenya’s flora and one in China.
With over 90 publications in peer-reviewed journals and three books to his credit, Gituru expressed his commitment to enhancing the Jkuat botanical garden, advocating for the conservation of rare and endangered plant species, and transforming it into an educational and recreational destination for people of all ages.
Gituru also reiterated his dedication to expanding the SAJOREC initiative across more African countries and institutions, as well as engaging additional research institutes and agencies in China.
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JKUAT Professor Robert Gituru Honored in China for Distinguished Research