University of Kabianga's Lipton Tea Innovation & Technology Academy Graduates another Intergrated Pest Management Cohort

University of Kabianga (UoK) celebrated the graduation of atleast 70 students who successfully completed an intensive short course on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The programme ran from 4th to 15th of May, 2026 and was conducted by the Lipton Tea Innovation and Technology Academy (LTITA), in collaboration with the School of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (SASNR) besides industry partners, Lipton Teas and Infusions and Browns Tea Estate.  

​Bridging distances and embracing modern connectivity, the event was hosted as a hybrid ceremony on Friday May 15th, 2026. While many gathered physically in the Senate Chambers, the session was simultaneously streamed virtually to accommodate graduands who could not make it to the venue, as well as Ms. Susan Gyle from Lipton Teas and Infusions who joined the celebration online.  

​The Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eric Koech (PhD; MBS) was represented by Prof. Dr. Fredrick Kassily, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & Student Affairs). The occasion was supported by the University Management and LTITA trainers, including Prof. Peter Sirmah (Dean, SASNR), Dr. George Kere (Lecturer & Head of Department, Agricultural Biosystems and Economics) and Dr. Noah Kibet (Lecturer & LTITA Trainer).  

​In his address which was delivered by Prof. Dr. Kasilly, the University Vice-Chancellor commended the cohort's hard work and resilience, encouraging them to step out as ambassadors of innovation, integrity and sustainability. He urged the graduates to use their newfound knowledge to prove that crops can be protected whilst protecting the  planet. Armed with eco-friendly pest control skills, the graduates are in a better position to reduce environmental hazards and boost productivity across the agricultural sector.  

​Congratulations to the entire cohort.