The County Government of Uasin Gishu and the University of Eldoret are set to sign a 10-year Memorandum of Understanding to deepen collaboration in research, training, and community development across the county.

The MOU, which will be signed soon, establishes a formal framework for the two institutions to work together on projects touching agriculture, health, engineering, environment, education, and youth empowerment. Both parties described it as a step toward sustainable development and efficient use of public resources.

Speaking during the pre-signing meeting, Uasin Gishu County Attorney, Mr Silverstor K.Metto, said the partnership will leverage the University of Eldoret’s academic and technical expertise alongside the county government’s policy and implementation mandate. The goal, they noted, is to avoid duplication and ensure that research directly addresses community needs.

According to the agreement, the collaboration will cover at least 20 thematic areas. Key priorities include food security through livestock and fisheries development, value addition, and post-harvest management. In health, the focus will be on maternal and child care, sports medicine, and joint research initiatives.

The education sector also features prominently. The MOU provides for the establishment of university colleges, continuous professional development programs, and structured internship opportunities for students within county departments. This is expected to bridge the gap between classroom training and practical service delivery.

On environment and energy, the partnership will explore water management, forest and wildlife conservation, and renewable energy sources including solar, wind, biogas, and geothermal. Infrastructure development, engineering, and entrepreneurship support for youth, women, and persons with disabilities are also part of the scope.

To guide implementation, Professor Dr Jacob Lolelian, leading the University committee and the County team, agreed that the two institutions will constitute a six-member steering committee with three representatives from each side. The committee will be tasked with planning joint projects, reviewing progress, and submitting quarterly reports. Funding for specific projects will be sourced jointly from partners and third parties.

The MOU further addresses intellectual property and confidentiality. Any research outputs or innovations developed jointly will be co-owned, with both parties required to acknowledge each other in publications and public materials. The agreement will remain in force for 10 years and can be renewed by mutual consent.

Metto further said the partnership aligns with Governor Dr Jonathan Bii’s Nguzo Kumi development agenda and will help translate policy into tangible projects on the ground. For the University of Eldoret, the deal strengthens its role as a community-focused institution that links research to real impact.

After the signing, attention will shift to rolling out pilot projects under the MOU. Both Uasin Gishu County and the University of Eldoret will be committed to ensuring the agreement delivers measurable benefits to residents.

Also in attendance from the County Executives, Dr Kottut Sammy (Agriculture), Eng. Lucy N. Njoroge (Education), UOE’s Director of Industrial Linkages, Dr. Emily J. Chemoiwa, Lawyer Dickson Orio and a host of county directors.