NUST Marks New Era in Agricultural Innovation with RUFORUM Membership
The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) has successfully concluded its participation in the 2nd Triennial Conference of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), held from August 12 to 16, 2024, in Namibia. The conference, themed “Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation, and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action,” convened over 1,000 distinguished delegates, including policymakers, higher education leaders, researchers, innovators, and representatives from farmer organisations globally.
Founded in 2004, RUFORUM represents a formidable consortium of 170 universities across 40 African nations. Evolving from the Forum on Agricultural Resource Husbandry (FORUM) of the Rockefeller Foundation, RUFORUM has emerged as a key player in advancing agricultural education and research on the continent. The 2024 conference, marking its second Triennial gathering, also celebrated the 20th Annual General Meeting, underscoring its growing influence and commitment to addressing critical agricultural challenges.
NUST’s engagement at the conference was marked by its significant contributions to discussions on agricultural innovation. The university presented a cutting-edge study on "Optimising Water Usage in Dryland Agriculture: Innovations and Implications for Namibia," exemplifying its commitment to addressing regional and global agricultural challenges through scientific research and practical solutions.
The conference served as a dynamic platform for the exchange of pioneering ideas, scientific findings, and strategic dialogues. It facilitated in-depth discussions on policy, sustainable practices, and international collaboration, aiming to bolster Africa’s agricultural sector and educational infrastructure. The event's scientific programme featured high-impact sessions and policy dialogues designed to foster innovative partnerships and drive transformative change across the agricultural and educational landscapes.
In recognition of NUST’s active and impactful participation, the university was honoured with a membership certificate at the closing ceremony. Accepting the certificate on behalf of NUST's Vice-Chancellor Dr Erold Naomab, Dr Onesmus Shuungula, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health, Natural Resources and Applied Sciences, expressed his appreciation, stating:
"Our formal engagement with RUFORUM began in March this year when a powerful delegation visited Windhoek in preparation for this conference. Even prior to that, some of our colleagues had already participated in RUFORUM’s events. We made a commitment then to join this community, driven by the shared vision and impactful activities of RUFORUM. Today, we reaffirm our pledge to work together toward a better continent."
Dr Shuungula further emphasised NUST’s dedication to advancing RUFORUM’s mission:
"As we accept this membership certificate, our pledge is to multiply the impact of RUFORUM’s work, elevating the standards of living, science, technology, and innovation across our beautiful continent."
This accolade signifies NUST's formal integration into the RUFORUM network, highlighting its leadership and its vital role in advancing agricultural research and innovation across the continent.
NUST remains committed to leveraging such high-profile forums to drive progress and foster collaboration. The university’s ongoing involvement in RUFORUM reflects its dedication to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to Africa’s economic and developmental goals.
