Mount Kenya University (MKU) will host its 2 nd annual Research and Innovation Week from October 14-18, 2024, at the university’s main campus in Thika.
Themed “Research and Innovation for Sustainable Production and Livelihoods,” the event aims to showcase creative solutions and foster collaborations between academia, industry, and government to address real-world challenges.
This year’s Research and Innovation Week offers a vibrant platform for a wide range of stakeholders, including Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), TVETs, government bodies, NGOs, industry players, innovation hubs, regulators, and international partners.
Participants will present groundbreaking ideas that have the potential to spark new ventures, spin-offs, and innovative products, strengthening the link between research and practical application. “A key focus will be on enhancing partnerships through MKU’s Service-Learning (SL) initiative, aligning academic programs with industry needs to equip students with hands-on experience for career success,” says the chairman of the organizing committee, Dr. Henry Yatich.
Highlights
He said the five-day event will feature school-specific symposiums from October 14 to 17, where renowned panelists will delve into topics tailored to their disciplines. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and gain actionable insights on how to integrate innovative practices into their programs, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
“The event will culminate on October 17 with an exciting hackathon, challenging participants to solve pressing societal and industry issues through creative solutions,” said Dr Yatich, who is also Principal College of Graduate studies and Research at MKU.
On October 18, the final day will see an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding projects from participating schools,
innovators, and sponsors. The event’s chief guest is Dr. James Mugo, Secretary-General of the Kenya National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), underscoring the importance of research and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals.
Dr Yatich said MKU has also lined up a media segment on TV47’s morning breakfast show, where university and industry
representatives will explore ways to enhance employability among graduates. Discussions will highlight real-world problem-solving strategies, the integration of artificial intelligence in entrepreneurship, virtual laboratories, and the use of case studies and capstone assignments for postgraduate students.
“These conversations will reinforce the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry in shaping future-ready
professionals,” he added. The forum has attracted support from leading organizations, including Equity Bank, the National Research Fund, Maxfre Ltd, Maruti Ltd., Innova Ltd., GTCO Bank, DAAD through the ACCESS Project, and Modern Tents Ltd.
Their sponsorship reflects a shared commitment to nurturing innovation and promoting sustainable production and
livelihoods. Further, a research and innovation week will be held on October 16 th under the theme; AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Social Change;
Opportunities and Challenges in the 21 st century. The keynote speaker is Allan Cheboi ( Data and Digital Technology (DigiTech) while Dr Judy Mwangi of Kenyatta University, Dr Sylvia Ndanu of TUC Mombasa, Mr Tony Kwalanda (Cape Media) will be the panelists.
The moderator is Dr Daniel Ong’ong’a of MKU. “MKU’s Research and Innovation Week promises to be a dynamic forum for thought leaders, educators, students, and innovators to exchange ideas and catalyze change. Participants can expect to leave with practical strategies, a wealth of new ideas, and a renewed focus on preparing learners for successful careers in their fields,” said Dr Yatich