On 7th August 2025, Engineers Without Borders (EWB) from Arizona State University, USA, were warmly received by DiNAO. The delegation was spearheaded by Jack Kennedy Moody, accompanied by Noah Okidia, as part of their follow-up visit to JOOUST’s School of Engineering.
This visit built on last year’s engagement and sought to strengthen ties between JOOUST and Arizona State University.
Key Highlights of the Visit
- The delegation emphasized the need for a clearer plan for future visits, particularly during student sessions, to enable greater student engagement.
- Discussions focused on establishing structured community outreach programmes and creating student collaborations between JOOUST and Arizona State University, similar to the ongoing exchange with Brazil.
- Jack Moody expressed his appreciation for JOOUST’s warm welcome and reaffirmed their commitment to working with the university.
Remarks from JOOUST Leadership
- The Director of DiNAO introduced Prof. Henry Onderi, the Director of Quality Assurance and Acting Vice Chancellor, who welcomed the guests on behalf of the university leadership.
- Prof. Onderi appreciated Arizona State University’s support, especially Noah Okidia’s role in enabling the construction of the Hydraulic Laboratory, and stressed the importance of exploring exchange programmes.
- Prof. Odondo also underscored the significance of strengthening collaboration between JOOUST and Arizona State University.
Insights from the EWB Delegation
- Noah Okidia highlighted the long-term planning of EWB projects in Bondo, noting that current implementations were planned five years ago.
- Jack Moody emphasized EWB’s goal of serving underserved communities around Bondo through water provision and lighting, adding that JOOUST student involvement would be key in enhancing community impact.
School of Engineering Collaboration
At the School of Engineering, the team was welcomed by Prof. Nyadawa. Discussions centered on three renewable energy areas for future collaboration:
- Hydraulic, Civil, and Mechanical Engineering – improving waste management through processing and agricultural integration.
- Charcoal Briquette Production – converting refuse into gas to supplement firewood use in schools.
- Solar Energy – tapping into solar resources for sustainable energy solutions in Bondo.
The visit reaffirmed the mutual commitment of both institutions to community-focused innovation, renewable energy exploration, and student-centered collaboration.
