Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar has urged TROPIMUNDO students to think critically and engage in meaningful discussions about tropical biodiversity and conservation.
Addressing the second batch of 10 TROPIMUNDO students on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at the TUM’s Assembly hall, Prof Laila challenged them to push the boundaries of their knowledge and explore innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues.
The 10 students were enrolled at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) in Brussels Belgium studying the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystems (TROPIMUNDO) offered by a total of 13 Universities across the globe.
The program involves students pursuing a Master of Science in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystem in Belgium and those pursuing a Master of Science in Aquaculture in TUM.
A total of 14 students are participating in this program.
Four of the students are from TUM and the other 10 students are from Colombia, Netherlands, United States of America (USA), Brazil, France, Germany, Belgium, Honduras, Malaysia and Indonesia.
According to Dr Cosmus Munga, a local coordinator of the TUM TROPIMUNDO program, the exchange is designed to expose students to marine environments and terrestrial ecosystems.
In an exclusive interview with the Corporate Communications Office, Dr Munga disclosed that in the First Year, first-semester students study in Belgium. In the second semester, the students choose to study in tropical countries such as Kenya, Cameroon, Madagascar, Reunion, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Philippines, Guadalupe, New Caledonia, and Guyana among others. This is a full semester with coursework, practical experience, fieldwork and examination.
“The students pay 1000 Euros per semester at TUM to facilitate the program. After the second semester, the students are examined and return to Europe. Those who have selected their research topics in Kenya can choose to remain behind," Dr Munga explained.
Through his leadership and mentorship, Dr Munga plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of experts in tropical biodiversity and conservation. His passion for the subject, combined with his dedication to teaching and mentoring, ensures that the TROPIMUNDO students are well-equipped to make a positive impact in the field of tropical studies.
The attendees included Dr Huxley Makonde, the Dean School of Applied and Health Sciences, Dr Madiha Salim, the Director of Career Services, Dr Wanyenda Chilimo, the University Librarian and Chairpersons from various Departments within the University.
