Kentucky State University received a $7 million grant from the National Science Foundation on Thursday to research soilless farming technology. This grant will help improve food growth in Kentucky, and KSU President Kofi Akakpo described it as a historic moment for the university. He emphasized the impact it will have on the community, economy, education and the future.
Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, highlighted the importance of this grant, especially given KSU’s past financial challenges. The school faced financial problems between 2018 and 2021 due to mismanagement of funds under previous management. With the new administration, efforts are being made to bring the school back to stability. Thompson expressed optimism about KSU’s future, stating that they will continue to build on these successes.
The partnership with the National Science Foundation reflects a commitment to advancing agricultural research and technology, which promises the future of food production in Kentucky. Thompson emphasized that this NSF grant will serve as a foundation for future opportunities and outcomes, including increased enrollment, student success and innovative programming. The development of further projects and initiatives that will benefit both the university and community is possible with this grant’s solid foundation.