At Kapasa Makasa University, the pursuit of knowledge is not just about textbooks and lectures; it's about transforming ideas into impactful solutions. The university’s motto, “Learn to Innovate,” reflects its commitment to nurturing creativity and innovation among its students. KMU takes a keen interest in funding projects that show promise, offering resources and support to transform innovative ideas into real-world applications. One of the shining examples of this approach is Lishuko Ng'onga, a former student turned Staff Development Fellow, whose passion for innovation in the field of herbal antibiotics has led him on an exciting journey of scientific discovery.

Lishuko Ng'onga’s journey with KMU began when he was a student at the Copperbelt University (CBU). At the genesis of KMU, he, along with other students, was stationed at Kapasa Makasa University as part of the institution’s expansion. It was during his second year at KMU that Lishuko began working on a project that would later define his academic and professional trajectory—a research project into herbal antibiotics. His interest in the healing potential of natural remedies, combined with a desire to contribute to the fight against antimicrobial resistance, led him to explore herbal alternatives to conventional antibiotics.

By the time Lishuko reached his fourth year, his research had advanced significantly. His innovative project, initially conceptualized as a simple academic pursuit, had evolved into a viable and promising solution. The project, which focused on extracting and testing natural herbs with potential antibiotic properties, had reached a stage where it was being showcased at agricultural shows. The attention it garnered from experts and industry professionals was a testament to its potential.

Upon completing his degree, Lishuko’s academic achievements and his groundbreaking work on herbal antibiotics did not go unnoticed. He was appointed as a Staff Development Fellow at KMU, allowing him to continue his research with the university’s full support. KMU’s commitment to fostering innovation was evident in the way it provided him with the resources and funding to take his project further. The herbal antibiotic formula underwent testing, and the results revealed promising antimicrobial properties, positioning it as a potential solution for addressing critical health challenges in livestock.

However, the journey didn’t end there. The testing results indicated that the herbal antibiotic would need to undergo clinical trials before it could be used on a larger scale. Recognizing the need for further expertise in animal testing, Lishuko was awarded a prestigious scholarship by Guangdong Ocean University in China, where he is currently studying Aquatic Animal Disease Control with the specific aim of completing the clinical trials for his project. His work at the university is expected to provide the necessary scientific foundation for the clinical trials, which will be essential for determining the efficacy and safety of the herbal antibiotic in real-world applications.

Lishuko Ng’onga’s story is not just one of academic success; it is a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of universities in supporting their students’ entrepreneurial endeavors. KMU’s innovation fund has played a key role in providing the support Lishuko needed to bring his ideas to life, turning a university project into a potential game-changer in the field of animal healthcare.

As Lishuko continues his studies in China, his journey exemplifies the university’s vision to not only impart knowledge but also to equip students with the tools and opportunities to create lasting change. The herbal antibiotic project, once just a concept in a student’s mind, is now on the edge of making a real impact in the fight against antimicrobial resistance, with Lishuko at the forefront of this exhilarating field.

Kapasa Makasa University’s investment in innovation is paying dividends—not only in terms of scientific advancement but also in shaping the future of students who go on to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. Lishuko Ng’onga’s story is a shining example of how KMU is empowering students to innovate, explore, and create solutions that address the world’s most pressing challenges. With continued support and a relentless commitment to innovation, KMU is fostering the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.