Directorate of Research Extension and Publications
Message from the Director of Research Extension and Publications
The Directorate is a statutory body of the University and was established in 2015 within the Division of Academic, Research and Student Affairs. The Directorate is mandated to coordinate the research, extension and publication activities in the University.
The academic staff at Tharaka University are engaged in various multidisciplinary and collaborative research projects in several thematic areas such as; Organic and Green Chemistry, Medicinal and Natural Product Chemistry, Ecology and Environmental Conservation, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Business and Economics, Mathematics and Statistics, Sustainable Agriculture & Dryland Farming, Water Conservation, Climate Change, Mining & Mineral Processing, Value addition and Seed Breeding. This has enabled the members of staff to publish in high impact journals such as Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, Green Chemistry, Journal of Organic Chemistry, Journal of Mathematics etc. The members of staff are also actively involved in writing fundable research proposals aimed at attracting more funds to the university and solving the societal problems.
Current Research Projects
Project 1: Enhanced climate change adaptation for improved agricultural production for farmers in Tharaka North and South.
- This research project is carried out by Tharaka University in collaboration with International Aid Services of Kenya (IAS). The project aims at empowering the communities of Tharaka to adopt to adaptive practices and enable IAS Kenya to establish a long-term partnership with the government and other stakeholders on Climate Change Adaption. This project not only aims to increase the self-sufficiency and food security of farmers, but also serves as a piloting and capacity-building exercise for IAS Kenya and its partners to play a vital role in future climate change adaptation efforts. In addition, the project supports IAS Kenya’s plans to further consolidate its activities in Tharaka.
Project 2: Development of Phlebotomite Sandflies Repellent Product(s) for Control of Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar
- This research project aims at developing an effective green, non-hazardous, non-toxic, and environmentally safe female phlebotomite sandflies repellent products inform of sprays, candles and lotion for use during indoors and outdoor activities. This project is funded by Tharaka University Internal Research Fund (IRF).
CORRELATION BETWEEN MUNG BEANS (Vigna radiata) METABOLITES PROFILES AND RESISTANCE TO STORAGE BRUCHIDS (Callosobruchus spp) INFESTATIONS; A POTENTIAL BIOMARKER
The infestation of mungbean seeds by Callosobruchus spp. poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity and food security. Understanding the relationship between mung bean metabolite profiles and resistance to Callosobruchus spp. infestation is crucial for developing effective management strategies. In this study, we investigated the correlation between various metabolites and resistance to infestation across different mung bean varieties. Metabolite profiles including proteins, carbohydrates, fatty acids, total phenols, tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids were analyzed alongside the extent of seed damage caused by infestation. Our results indicate potential biomarkers associated with resistance to Callosobruchus spp. infestation, which could aid in breeding programs and pest management efforts.
PRESENTED AT MUNGBEAN INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS BANGKOK THAILAND 5th -7th MARCH 2024 BY SILAS NJIRU
Vision
A global centre of excellence in teaching, creativity, mentorship, research, innovation, inventions, and outreach for societal transformation
Mission
To enhance a strong buttress of knowledge base through teaching, incubation of ideas, research, innovation to produce graduates with problem solving skills for positive societal transformation.
