Chemistry meets Agriculture: A blended learning journey by 105 students of University of Rwanda, College of Science and Technology (UR-CST) at AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd.

Jan. 18, 2024, 3:19 p.m.

AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd has been making waves in the agricultural industry and their recent engagement with students from the University of Rwanda is a testament to their commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture.

On 11th January 2024, 35 students from the University of Rwanda, College of Science and Technology (UR-CST) embarked on educational tour at AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd in Musanze District following a similar visit by 70 students in September 2023.

The educational field trip was an opportunity for students from Chemistry department at the University of Rwanda – College of Science and Technology (UR-CST) to delve deeper into the application of theories they have learned in the classroom. The students, who study environmental microbiology and advanced analytical chemistry were able to witness firsthand the innovative and sustainable practices employed by AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd.

During the field trip, the students learned about various sustainable agricultural practices:

Figure 1: The compost site in Climate Smart Agriculture Model Farm of AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd.

Environmental microbiology and advanced analytical chemistry might not scream "farm visit" on the surface. Yet, for these UR-CST students, delving into the world of AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd proved an eye-opening experience. Witnessing the intricate dance of microorganisms in our vermicomposting systems, learning the secrets of brewing potent compost tea, and understanding its direct impact on soil health – it was science unfolding in real-time, with tangible results.

Regenerating the Soil, Regenerating Knowledge

But the journey went beyond the microscopic. Students were immersed in the world of regenerative agriculture, where non-tillage practices and nature-based solutions mimicked natural ecosystems. They saw firsthand how these methods nurtured not just crops, but the entire soil ecosystem, a crucial lesson for environmental microbiology students.

From Classroom to Cooling Chambers: Innovation Takes Center Stage

Figure 2: The charcoal Cooler built by AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd in partnership with Kilmo Trust Organization for KOTIBANYA Cooperative in Rubavu District at Bazirete Market (Fruits&Vegetables Market).

Post-harvest handling took on a whole new meaning with the introduction of the zero-energy cooling chambers. Students marveled at the ingenuity of using sand and bricks or charcoal as cooling agents, witnessing how science and traditional knowledge could join forces to combat post-harvest losses.

Climate Smart, Future-Proofed Learning

And finally, the tour culminated in a visit to our Climate Smart Agriculture Model farm. Here, the students saw the practical application of climate-smart practices; practices vital for a future grappling with changing weather patterns, and this is aligned with priorities of Rwanda’s National Determined Contributions (NDCs) that emphasizes climate adaptation and resilience. They left not just with knowledge, but with a sense of agency, understanding how their scientific expertise could be harnessed to build resilient agricultural systems.

Figure 3: Conservation agricultuture display in Climate Smart Agriculture Model Farm of AGRIRESEARCH UNGUKA Ltd.

These visits are more than just field trips; they're a testament to our commitment to nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Such visits are also a reminder that agriculture isn't just about tilling the soil; it's about harnessing the power of diverse disciplines, from chemistry to community, to build a greener, more sustainable future.

So, to the students and staff of UR-CST, we say: thank you for joining us on this blended learning journey. We stand at the crossroads of agriculture and science, and together, we can cultivate a future rich in knowledge, innovation, and resilience. Let the learning continue, let the soil thrive, and let the seeds of change blossom!