We are pleased to announce that the inaugural Sibia Africa’s Naku-One Collaboration with the University of Amsterdam (UvA) officially concludes on Friday, 21st March 2025. This academic fieldwork research program, established under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UvA and Sibia Africa, has been an outstanding success, fostering academic exchange and generating valuable research on sustainable development.
As part of this initiative, 12 Master of Science in International Development Studies students from UvA conducted extensive academic fieldwork in Nakuru County, Kenya. Their research focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which align with the core areas of Sibia Africa’s work. Through this collaboration, the students examined key SDG-related themes such as poverty reduction, food security, health and well-being, climate action, and sustainable cities and communities, offering new insights into pressing development challenges.
The program achieved significant academic milestones, including rigorous field data collection, strengthened academic and local partnerships, and a rich cross-cultural exchange of knowledge and ideas. By engaging directly with local communities, policymakers, and organizations, the students produced research that is not only academically rigorous but also deeply relevant to real-world SDG implementation. Their findings will contribute to shaping policies and strategies that drive sustainable development at both local and global levels.
Despite its success, the program also encountered challenges, including logistical complexities, administrative hurdles, and the need for enhanced digital research infrastructure. These experiences provided valuable lessons for refining future academic collaborations, ensuring smoother operations and even greater impact. The insights gained from this first cohort will help improve the structure of future fieldwork initiatives, making them more effective and accessible.
As we celebrate the success of this inaugural cohort, we extend our sincere gratitude to the UvA students, faculty, and all our partners who contributed to making this collaboration a success. We look forward to expanding this partnership and welcoming new cohorts in the coming years. Sibia Africa is proud to continue this collaboration with the University of Amsterdam, now in its second year, and remains committed to advancing impactful academic research and sustainable development initiatives.
