Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science Technology (JOOUST) now boasts a Molecular and Microbiology Laboratory. The laboratory was commissioned by the Principal Secretary, State Department for University Education and Research, Amb. Simon Nabukwesi. 

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at the Main Campus, Amb. Nabukwesi applauded the Milestones gained through research that has placed JOOUST on the world map. He said these gains open more opportunities for research aimed at providing solutions to human problems. Amb. Nabukwesi asked other universities to follow the example and partner with research institutions like NRF to foster quality research without depending merely on the exchequer. 

While giving her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, National Research Fund, Dr. Jemimah Onsare, said that she was proud that the University had actualized this project which commenced in the 2016/2071 Financial Year. The National Research Fund (NRF) grant was awarded under its Capacity Building Programme. She said, though they did not allocate the entire amount they had applied for, NRF celebrates the University for what they have done with the allocation. Dr. Onsare asked the University to develop a policy that will enable sharing of the Laboratory with other research Institutions.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Agong’ thanked the Government through the National Research Fund for equipping the state of the art Laboratory. He added that the University was very committed to advancing Science, Innovation and Technology by recruiting well trained international scientists. He noted that the Laboratory will be used by research institutions to boost cell research within the region.

Also present during the ceremony was the Siaya Deputy Governor, Dr. James Okumbe who praised the University for the achievement. He reiterated that the Siaya County Government was working very closely with the University to uplift the community through cutting edge research that will see them better able to determine best crops to plant and soil varieties. 

The Molecular and Microbiology Laboratory was equipped through the support of the National Research Fund through a competitive grant through the Division of Research, Innovation and Outreach. It is the first Lab of its kind within the region with the capacity to conduct research and tests on molecules, microbes and DNA testing.