By Jacqueline Pitts
(Source The Bottom Line):
On Thursday, Kentucky State University (KSU) announced a $7 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop a statewide research network seeking to address soil quality and access to fresh food.
The new project will be called Driving AgTech Research and Education in Kentucky (DARE-KY) and will include the University of Pikeville, Bluegrass Community and Technical College, Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation and FoodChain Inc. as partners.
KSU President Koffi Akakpo said DARE-KY will focus on soilless food systems that will use fish waste as fertilizer to grow produce. He said the project emphasizes the impact of the university on the economy and future of the state.
Kentucky Council for Postsecondary Education President Aaron Thompson said KSU has been able to achieve a lot in a short amount of time which has helped them get recognized at this level, stressing the difficulty of securing a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). He said it is the start of great things for the school.
A letter from the NSF was read at the announcement which stated the investment will significantly advance STEM learning and help build a skilled science and technology workforce within traditionally underrepresented groups.
Many elected officials and groups also spoke at the event and applauded KSU’s efforts to make this grant a reality.
