Official Launch of The Climate and Air Monitoring Equipment at Machakos University
Machakos University proudly launched a cutting-edge Climate and Air Monitoring Equipment, marking a significant milestone in the University’s commitment to advancing research in environmental sciences on 24th October 2024. The project is a result of a fruitful collaboration facilitated by the University’s Division of Research, Innovation, and Linkages through the Dean School of Engineering and Technology Dean School of Agriculture, Environment and Health Sciences.
The event was graced by members of the University Council, led by the Chairman, Dr. Christopher Gatama Gakahu, and the University Management, headed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo. Also in attendance were, Senate members and undergraduate students pursuing Bachelor of Environmental Science, Bachelor of Environmental Studies and Community Development, Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Environmental Resource Conservation) and Bachelor of Science in Public Health.
The guest of honour, Dr. Richard Damoah, Assistant Professor in the Climate Science Division at Morgan State University (MSU), delivered an insightful remarks on the importance of climate research and air quality monitoring system. Dr. Damoah has more than 15 years of experience in chemistry climate modeling, radiative transfer modeling, trajectory modeling, pollution measurement and data analysis with strong programming skills. His activities over the years have included using climate model to investigate the interaction between air pollution and climate.
The instruments are equipped with advanced features designed to monitor a wide range of air pollutants, enabling comprehensive evaluation of atmospheric conditions in comparison to clean air standards and historical data. Additionally, they measure climate variables and other environmental parameters contributing to sustainable development and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo highlighted the potential impact of the project on both the University and the surrounding community stating that the project will not only serve the Machakos community through its research and recommendations, but it will also open up new avenues for further research in environmental science and the health sector. The Vice Chancellor reiterated the University’s efforts to promoting impactful research that addresses both local and global environmental challenges.
The Chairman of the University Council, Dr. Christopher Gakahu, echoed the Vice Chancellor’s sentiments by emphasizing the importance of collaboration in driving research efforts. Dr. Gakahu noted that the collaboration has created opportunities for both local and international partnerships, including student and staff exchange programme that would further enhance the research capacity of Machakos University.
The official launch was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, officiated by the Chairman of the University Council, Dr. Christopher Gatama Gakahu, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Joyce Agalo, and the Guest of Honour, Dr. Richard Damoah.
The launch of this equipment sets the stage for Machakos University to become a hub for environmental research, further positioning it as a leader in climate and air quality studies in the region. The university looks forward to collaborating with various stakeholders, both locally and globally, to harness the power of data for positive environmental change.
