The Department of Land Resource Management and Agricultural Technology at the University of Nairobi has launched a transformative academic program — the Bachelor of Science in Dryland Sustainability Science and Technology (DSST) — aimed at addressing the pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges in Kenya’s drylands and beyond.
Drylands account for about 40% of the Earth’s land surface and make a significant contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of many developing nations. In Africa, and particularly in Kenya, these arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) are vital to national development. Over 89% of Kenya’s land area is classified as dryland, supporting approximately 35% of the human population, 70% of the country’s livestock, and a significant portion of its wildlife and biodiversity. However, despite their importance, these regions face persistent challenges including land degradation, climate vulnerability, and socio-economic marginalization.
According to the UNDP Human Development Index, more than half of the world’s most disadvantaged countries are located in dryland Africa. The sustainable development of these areas is therefore not just an environmental imperative but a socio-economic and moral one. National strategies, including Sessional Paper No. 8 of 2012, the ASALs Policy, and the National Climate Change Policy, among others, emphasize the need to incorporate drylands into mainstream planning to realize the goals of Kenya Vision 2030 and uphold the Bill of Rights in the Constitution of Kenya (2010), particularly in securing food, water, and environmental sustainability for future generations.
The newly introduced DSST degree responds to this urgent need by focusing on capacity building for sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and ecosystem restoration in dryland regions. The program takes a transdisciplinary approach, integrating science, technology, and socio-economic dynamics to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills required to restore and sustainably manage dryland ecosystems.
Key Features of the DSST Program:
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Emphasis on climate resilience, land rehabilitation, and sustainable livelihoods.
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Training in advanced scientific and technical methods for dryland resource management.
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Application of real-world problem-solving to dryland sustainability challenges.
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Preparation of graduates to become thought leaders, researchers, and policy influencers in dryland development.
Admission Criteria:
Prospective students must meet the general University of Nairobi admission requirements. Specific eligibility includes:
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A KCSE mean grade of C+ with passes in relevant science subjects.
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Diploma holders in biological or related sciences from recognized institutions.
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A-Level holders with passes in Biology and another relevant subject.
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Holders of higher national diplomas or Bachelor of Science degrees in related fields.
The program is open to individuals with a passion for environmental sustainability, agricultural innovation, and social development in drylands, offering a timely and strategic opportunity to be at the forefront of change in one of the most critical sectors for Kenya’s future.
By nurturing a new generation of dryland sustainability experts, the University of Nairobi affirms its commitment to national development, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.
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