UON Students Celebrated in Unilever’s Innovation Challenge.
Unilever, a leading consumer goods manufacturer, has announced the champions of the ‘Great Millet Conquest’. Launched in February 2024 with a budget of Sh2 billion, the project garnered 209 submissions. As a result, thereby culminating in the recognition of outstanding innovators
The top prize of Sh500,000 went to the winning team, underscoring their exceptional creativity in millet product localization. Additionally, the second and third runners-up received Sh250,000 and Sh100,000 respectively. Consequently, beyond cash rewards, the winners will serve as ambassadors for millet and participate in Unilever’s prestigious Future Leaders program.
Dr. Calistus Kundu, Director for Food and Crops, hailed the competition as pivotal in revolutionizing Kenyan diets, noting that Kenya’s millet production is currently subpar. In addition, he highlighted the government’s endorsement of sustainable initiatives that bolster climate-resilient agriculture.
Follow us on X: Education Point Kenya.
In collaboration with the Farm to Market Alliance (FTMA) and the University of Nairobi (UON), Unilever spearheaded the ‘Great Millet Conquest’ to inspire university students to develop sustainable millet-based products. Consequently, this initiative aims to contribute to a resilient and nourishing agricultural future.
Unilever CEO, Luck Ochieng, emphasized millet’s potential as a nutritional powerhouse capable of reshaping global sustainable farming practices. In addition, he expressed excitement about the innovative solutions students would bring to traditional millet uses.
Read also:
- University of Nairobi Students to Gain from Huawei ICT Program
- Unveiling Excellence: A Holistic Review of the University of Nairobi
- Ministry of Education to Host Regional AI Forum in Nairobi
- Reappointment of Prof. Joseph Mathu Ndung’u as JKUAT Chancellor
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mithika Linturi, echoed these sentiments, predicting that the ‘Great Millet Conquest’ could be a game changer for Kenya’s agricultural landscape.
Professor Stephen Kiama, Vice-Chancellor of UON, emphasized the importance of industry-university collaborations in enhancing agricultural competitiveness. Moreover, he advocated for curricula that prioritize creativity and practical training, thereby underscoring the need to prepare students for real-world challenges.
The project, facilitated by Unilever’s nutritional brand Knorr, unfolded in three phases: product development, commercialization, and farmer engagement. Therefore, its ultimate goal is to establish a viable market for millet-based products, promoting sustainability across the agricultural value chain.
UON Students Celebrated in Unilever’s Innovation Challenge.
Check for Daily Updates
Follow us on Telegram