Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics Research and Extension of Prof Peter Gichangi has urged TROPIMUNDO students to think critically and engage in meaningful discussions about tropical biodiversity and conservation.
Addressing the third batch of 6 TROPIMUNDO students on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the TUM’s Assembly hall, Prof Gichangi challenged them to push the boundaries of their knowledge and explore innovative solutions to pressing environmental issues.
The 6 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 13 Universities worldwide.
The program involves students pursuing a Master of Science in Tropical Biodiversity and Ecosystem in Belgium and those pursuing a Master of Science in Fisheries and Aquaculture in TUM.
A total of 12 students are participating in this program.
Six of the students are from TUM, and the other 6 students are from Brazil, France, India and Belgium.
According to Prof 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, Prof 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," Prof Munga explained.
Through his leadership and mentorship, Prof 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 Prof Huxley Makonde, the Dean School of Applied and Health Sciences, Dr Madiha Salim, the Director of Career Services, Dr Johnson Shume the Chairman of the Environmental and Health Sciences Department and other Chairpersons from various Departments within the University.