Cranfield University Students Visit UoK

Since the inauguration of the Lipton Tea Innovation and Technology Academy, the University of Kabianga and Cranfield University have maintained their relationship in tea research.
 

On Friday, May 16, 2025, two researchers from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom, Mr. Thomas Smith and Mr. Patrick McKenna, were at the University of Kabinaga to discuss their work in tea research on the topic of "Towards Net Zero in Tea."

Thomas provided an overview of his research investigating carbon and nitrogen dynamics within tea systems. His work aims to quantify the stocks and flows of these elements, as well as identify the sources of greenhouse gas emissions. He discussed the empirical data collected and the modelling approaches employed in his analysis, part of which involves a multi-year organo-mineral fertilizer experiment.

Patrick presented his research on the varying responses of different tea clones to irrigation, drawing from a multi-year experiment. He addressed the methodological challenges inherent in comparing drought responses across different clones and will discuss the statistical approaches used for robust analysis. This presentation was of interest to researchers in environmental science, agriculture, and statistics.

Prof. Joyce Kiplimo (who represented the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eric Koech) welcomed the visitors. She was flanked by the Prof. Peter Sirma, Dr. George Kere, Dr. Noah Kibet and Ms. Joyce Muia.

Thomas and Patrick were accompanied by Mr. Gabriel Tuei and Ms. Wanyoike of Browns Plantations (East Africa).