OUK TO LAUNCH AGRI-TECHNOLOGY AND FOOD SYSTEMS DEGREE TO TACKLE CLIMATE CHALLENGES

NAIROBI, 2025 – As climate change intensifies, threatening global food security and economic stability, the Open University of Kenya (OUK) is taking a bold step forward. The University is set to introduce a cutting-edge Agri-Technology and Food Systems degree, designed to equip students with the expertise needed to confront climate challenges and feed a projected global population of 10 billion by 2050.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

During a virtual Public Lecture at OUK on January 29, 2025, Professor Amanda Rose Newton, a consultant with the George N. Frem Foundation in Lebanon and an Organic Inspector for Ecocert in the USA, underscored the multidisciplinary nature of climate action. She emphasized that the new degree programme offers diverse opportunities for students across various fields.

“If you are a big economics person, there is a lot of work to be done in climate action. Solutions need to be both feasible and economically beneficial. Economists play a crucial role in ensuring strategies not only mitigate climate issues but also boost economies. Similarly, engineers—particularly civil engineers and technologists—are key to creating resilient infrastructure and advancing climate-smart agriculture solutions that directly benefit farmers, climate scientists and entire communities,” she noted.

The programme will also highlight the critical role of social sciences in promoting climate awareness and community engagement. Professor Amanda stressed the importance of education and sociology in mobilizing communities and policymakers.

“Buy-in is crucial. Social scientists can educate communities and decision-makers about the importance of climate action. Effective communication, particularly through social media, can amplify these efforts, helping companies and individuals working on climate solutions reach wider audiences.”

Preparing for a Future-Ready Career

Beyond addressing climate challenges, the degree programme aims to empower students with career resilience. According to Professor Amanda:

“The skills you gain in this field are going to be essential for years to come, across multiple industries. Whether you’re into science, engineering, research or data analytics, there’s a world of opportunities awaiting you.”

The curriculum will encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and industry-ready:

• Environmental Scientists: Specializing in pollution mitigation and developing sustainable solutions.
• Climate Modelers: Utilizing advanced mathematics, data analytics and computer science to predict climate trends.
• Ecologists: Studying biodiversity conservation and its impact on climate.
• Renewable Energy Experts: Pioneering solutions in wind, solar and hydropower energy.
• Civil Engineers: Designing flood- and wind-resistant infrastructure to create climate-resilient cities.
• Carbon Capture Technologists: Innovating methods to sequester carbon dioxide and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates will be equipped to implement sustainable solutions across various industries.

Driving Careers in Climate Action

The global shift towards climate action is creating vast career opportunities. According to Dr. Catherine Kagucia, the Acting Deputy Registrar (Academic Affairs), the programme will equip future experts with the knowledge and tools to tackle these pressing challenges.

The green economy is projected to generate 24 million new jobs worldwide by 2030, reflecting a significant transition toward sustainable development. Key industries driving this transformation include:

1. Renewable Energy: Rapidly growing demand for solar, wind and hydropower solutions.
2. Sustainable Agriculture: Climate-smart farming techniques to secure food supplies for the growing population.
3. Urban Planning and Green Infrastructure: Developing carbon sinks and resilient urban environments.
4. Policy and Advocacy: Crafting climate policies and engaging communities in sustainability initiatives.

Innovations in Climate-Smart Agriculture

Climate-smart agriculture is among the most transformative sectors. Successful models include:

• Agroforestry in Kenya: Integrating drought-tolerant trees with staple crops has increased yields by 35% during droughts while improving soil health.
• Precision Irrigation in California: IoT-based soil sensors and drip irrigation systems have reduced water use by 40% while maintaining high-value crop yields.
• Resilient Rice in the Philippines: Climate-resistant rice varieties have boosted yields by 60% despite floods, ensuring food security and farmer livelihoods.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

The soon-to-be launched Bachelor of Agri-Technology and Food Systems degree is a major milestone in tackling climate change and food security. By integrating technology, science, economics and communication, the programme will produce the next generation of leaders in sustainability.