Centre for Climate Change • Tharaka University

Message from the Centre Coordinator

Climate change poses significant threats to semi-arid regions like the one in which Tharaka University is located. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can exacerbate water scarcity, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. The Center for Climate Change at Tharaka University is at the forefront of addressing these challenges through multidisciplinary research, education, and community outreach initiatives. Our priority areas are on: Research; Education and Outreach; Partnerships and Collaborations. Through its multifaceted approach, the Center for Climate Change at Tharaka University aims to contribute to the global effort to mitigate and adapt to climate change, while empowering local communities to build resilience and achieve sustainable development.

The Center for Climate Change at Tharaka University is dedicated to advancing research, education, and outreach efforts to address the critical challenges posed by climate change. Situated in a semi-arid region, our center is uniquely positioned to study the impacts of climate change on vulnerable ecosystems and communities.

Our mission is closely aligned with Tharaka University’s overarching goals of teaching, research, innovation, and societal transformation. We bring together a multidisciplinary team of experts from various fields, including environmental science, agriculture, water resources, energy, social sciences and policy studies.

Through cutting-edge research, we strive to deepen our understanding of climate change dynamics, develop adaptation and mitigation strategies, and inform evidence-based policymaking. Additionally, we prioritize community engagement and knowledge dissemination, working closely with local stakeholders to co-create sustainable solutions.

Vision

Our vision is to be a globally recognized center of excellence in climate change research and outreach, driving transformative actions that safeguard the environment, promote sustainable development, and enhance the well-being of communities in semi-arid regions and beyond.

Mission

Our mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts, develop innovative solutions, and empower communities to adapt and mitigate the effects of a changing climate. We strive to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders to create a sustainable and resilient future.

Objectives

Research and Knowledge Generation to enhance understanding of climate change impacts, adaptation strategies, and mitigation measures specific to the ASAL regions. This includes studying the effects of climate change on water resources, agriculture, biodiversity, and local communities.
Capacity Building and Education to raise awareness about climate change among students, researchers, policymakers, and local communities by offering educational programs, workshops, and training sessions to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and skills necessary to address climate change challenges effectively.
Community Engagement and Outreach to actively engage the local communities, community-based organizations, local governments, and other stakeholders in developing and implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the region.

Support Education, Research and Outreach as follows:

The Center for Climate Change provides the knowledge, innovations and ideas that informs the review of relevant academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees.
The centre offers professional development courses, to equip students and practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle climate change challenges.
The centre is works on a providing a robust research agenda focused on climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience, in line with global standards such as IPCC.

The center actively engages with local communities through workshops, demonstrations, and collaborative projects

Centres priority areas:

Quality Research in the following areas:

Climate Modeling and Projections: Developing high-resolution climate models to better understand regional climate patterns and project future scenarios.
Water Resources Management: Investigating sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and efficient irrigation techniques.
Agroecology and Food Security: Exploring climate-resilient agricultural practices, crop diversification, and strategies to enhance food security in semi-arid regions.
Renewable Energy Solutions: Researching and promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development.
Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience: Studying the socio-economic impacts of climate change and developing community-based adaptation strategies to enhance resilience.

Enhance Partnerships and Collaborations as follows:

The center actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with other academic institutions, research organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities.
These collaborations facilitate knowledge sharing, resource pooling, and the development of comprehensive strategies to address climate change challenges in semi-arid regions.