Lipton Tea Innovation & Technology Academy Launches Course on Managing Tea Pests Without Pesticides
Nairobi, 24 March 2025 – The Lipton Tea Innovation & Technology Academy (the “Lipton Academy”), the world’s first comprehensive education institution dedicated to tea, has launched a programme on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in collaboration with international partners to encourage the end of pesticide use without impacting livelihoods.
The first two-week intensive course has brought together distinguished experts from institutions including the Aeres University of Applied Sciences, Inholland University of Applied Sciences, University of Amsterdam, as well as the University of Kabianga, Kenya Tea Research Institute, Kenya Sugar Research and Training Institute, and Browns East Africa Plantations. Key topics include biological control in IPM, phytosanitary management and implementation, abiotic stress management, technology in support of IPM, and the economic impact analysis of IPM approaches for tea production. Initially benefiting more than 100 tea industry students and professionals, the course is designed to help participants with sustainable approaches to pest management.
Dr. Helen Saini, Head of Sustainable Agriculture R&D at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, who opened the programme with a seminar on the importance of agro-chemical reduction, stated: "This course represents a significant step in the journey towards more sustainable tea production. By bringing together global experts and local knowledge, we're fostering innovation that will benefit both the industry and the environment."
Dr. Roos van Maanen, Director of Amsterdam Green Campus at the University of Amsterdam, added: "This collaboration highlights the critical role of bridging fundamental and applied research in addressing global agricultural challenges. We're excited to contribute to this transformative initiative and to help advance sustainable agriculture."
Professor Eric Koech, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kabianga, emphasised the importance of the collaboration, saying: “The successful completion of this course exemplifies our commitment to industry-academia partnerships that drive agricultural sustainability. By equipping participants with essential skills in sustainable pest control, we are making significant strides in enhancing the tea industry’s capabilities.”
Paul Okech, a student on the course, shared his experience: “The IPM course was eye-opening, providing us with practical skills and new concepts that will help us address critical issues like climate change and food security. It has inspired me to continue researching and applying these valuable lessons to benefit society.”
The IPM course contributes to the Lipton Academy’s goal of supporting the development of the country's largest export industry and enhancing Kenyan tea's designation of origin as synonymous with premium value. This is part of the Lipton Academy’s broader mission to provide comprehensive education in tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing, from vocational training to PhD level courses. The Lipton Academy is working with stakeholders including the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), Tea Board of Kenya (TBK), Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA), and the Kenyan Ministry of Agriculture, to develop and deliver practical knowledge that will foster positive change on the ground.
About the Lipton Tea Innovation & Technology Academy
Co-funded by LIPTON Teas and Infusions, the Kenyan Ministry of Education, and the University of Kabianga, the Lipton Tea Innovation & Technology Academy is the first comprehensive education institution dedicated to tea. Training up to 3,000 Kenyans annually, the Lipton Academy supports the development of the region’s tea industry beyond raw material production to create globally sought-after talent. By enhancing quality and responsible practices, it will help raise living standards and support women's education and empowerment. The Lipton Academy offers vocational training and degree programmes, from bachelor's to PhD levels, focusing on tea cultivation, harvesting, processing, business skills, and technological innovation.