The University of Kinshasa marked its presence at the 47th edition of the Congo-Kinshasa International Fair (FICKIN) with the official inauguration of its stand on Sunday, August 10. The event was opened by the Rector, Professor Jean-Marie KAYEMBE NTUMBA, and took place in the presence of members of the management committee, professors, heads of works, assistants, as well as a diverse audience.

In his speech, the Rector expressed his amazement at the diversity of community services resulting from UNIKIN's research and teaching. According to him, this work offers concrete answers to the major challenges facing Congolese society, particularly in the areas of climate change, food security, sustainable development, and others.

Among the innovations highlighted are:

• Low-carbon cement, designed to reduce the environmental impact of construction.
• The Water School, which provides precise information on the country's navigable areas and suggests solutions to prevent certain rivers from drying up and flooding.
• The cassava value chain, nicknamed the "white diamond," is driven by the research of Professor Marie-Claire YANDJU, Secretary General for Research. This work makes it possible to produce detoxified cassava, transformed into bread flour to make high-quality biscuits, spaghetti, bread, and fufu. From roots to leaves, cassava is proving to be a true food insurance.
• Moyo'o wine made from honey, with many virtues.
• Plasticiculture, aimed at optimizing agricultural production using innovative techniques.
• Drepa Tea, designed as a support solution for people with sickle cell disease.

UNIKIN: A science park focused on sustainable development

This research is part of the Unikin, Research and Sustainable Development (URDD) program, which aims to unite the university's scientific work and encourage collaboration with other researchers in the country. The goal is to strengthen the DRC's position on the international scientific scene by promoting its potential and innovations.

UNIKIN's participation in this edition of FICKIN perfectly illustrates its mission: to train executives, serve the community, and develop research. Beyond the exhibition, the stand is intended to be a place for technology transfer: innovations can be acquired or reproduced, always with a view to sustainable development.

Julie MASENGU Charcom/SGR