A total of 155 participants, including 128 Postgraduate students and 27 faculty members, attended the dissemination seminar organized by Egerton University Board of Postgraduate Studies (BPGS).
In a bid to foster research excellence and equip postgraduate students with crucial presentation skills, Prof. George Morara Ogendi led the Directorate to stage the event that showcased the depth of academic inquiry within the university walls.
The event themed: ‘Expanding our capacities through research and innovation,’ took place at the Faculty of Education Theatre II and the Faculty's Boardroom, serving as platforms for postgraduate students to present their research findings. Members from various faculties, including Agriculture, Education, and the Faculty of Arts, among others, gathered to witness the intellectual prowess of the university's postgraduate community.
In his remarks, the BPGS Director of observed that; Communication of research findings is key for any meaningful impact on the economy, health, and many facets of life. That communication of research should go beyond thesis and journal publications. Prof. Ogendi said, such communication should be tailored to the different audiences, taking note of the various communication channels. The key research findings should be well packaged and formatted for the different stakeholders.
"This is a way to prepare our students ready for presentations, through practical presentations as they get panel responses and questions from the gallery. We are preparing graduates who will be ready for the job market as they own their own work by way of demonstration of how they have done research," he explained, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in shaping future graduates.
Acknowledging the support of the University management, Prof. Ogendi said the dissemination seminar not only provided a stage for students to showcase their research but also offered a unique opportunity for them to engage with panelists and the audience. This interactive approach aims to simulate real-world scenarios where researchers must defend their work and respond to inquiries, a crucial skill set for any professional embarking on a career in academia or industry.
The presentations covered a wide array of topics, reflecting the diversity of research pursuits within Egerton University. From cutting-edge agricultural studies to innovative educational methodologies and the exploration of the arts, the seminar highlighted the university's commitment to multidisciplinary excellence.
He stressed the importance of hands-on experience, stating, "We are not just producing graduates with theoretical knowledge; we are nurturing individuals who can navigate the practical challenges of their fields. The ability to communicate and defend one's research is a vital aspect of academic and professional success."
Among the faculty members present were Dr Maurice Udoto (Deputy Registrar of Academic Affairs), Prof. Samuel Odeyo Nyalala (Deputy Director Board of Postgraduate Studies), Board of Undergraduate Studies Director Prof. Micah Chepchieng.
Dr. Udoto represented the DVC ARE at the event and emphasized on the need for students to be proactive in addressing many of the societal challenges using their innovations and technologies resulting from their research work. He encouraged students to use this platform to share their research findings and benefit from constructive criticism from the audience as they prepare for their thesis submissions and defenses as well as presentations at international conferences.
The BPGS Directorate has put in place mechanisms that will ensure efficient delivery of services, noting that student concerns are being addressed as soon as they are brought to their attention. The director thanked the Faculty representatives to the Board of Postgraduate Studies for their support in facilitating student’s proposals and theses examination. Among the Faculty representatives were Dr. J. Ombati, Dr. J. Onyango, Dr. L. Chesikaw, Dr. C. Maina, Prof. M. Chepchieng, Prof. J. Kibet and Dr. A. Karanja. Also present at the event were Prof. Emilia Ilieva and Dr. J. Muthamia, Dean of Students.
The Director Marketing, Resource Mobilization and Agro-Science Park Prof. Paul Kimurto spoke later on saying the efforts by the Board of postgraduate studies are novel in putting the University on the global map as an institution of higher learning grounded in research and innovation.
Among the faculties that were represented include Faculty of Environment and Resources Development led by the Dean Prof. Wilkister Moturi.
Speaking at the Faculty of Education where a buzz of intellectual energy was exhibited by students who passionately presented their findings, the student's Congress Representative of Postgraduate students Ms. Brenda Mengich thanked students for showing up in numbers.
She hailed the Student's audience, comprising faculty members and peers, who actively participated by posing challenging questions and offering constructive feedback.
"This seminar has been an eye-opener for me. Presenting in front of experienced academics and receiving immediate feedback has enhanced my confidence and sharpened my communication skills," shared one postgraduate student from the Faculty of Agriculture.
As Egerton University under leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac O. Kibwage continues to prioritize research and academic excellence, initiatives like the dissemination seminar play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of scholars and professionals.
The university's commitment to providing a platform for practical experience aligns with the broader goal of producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
“At least we learned the kind of questions and how presentations are done. We also got a chance to ask questions to the presenters. It was an insight on the practical applications of the things we study in class like ethics in research, research designs,” Barbara Wabuyele, a Research and Public Policy post-graduate student opined. She was joined by her coursemates Anicet Bucumi (Burundi), Maxwell Ochen (Uganda), Edwin Onyango, Prosper Nzoyishemeza (Burundi), and Glorious Jesang among others.
Graduate School, is also known as; The Board of Postgraduate Studies, Egerton University (BPGS). The Directorate’s inception was in 1990, initially to enhance the Academic status of its Teaching Staff. It then admitted 8 Master's and 3 Doctorate students. The Students Enrolment as well as Programmes have since grown tremendously.
The University, through the Graduate School, offers three levels of programmes.
Firstly, the Postgraduate Diploma programmes, whose duration is between one academic year and a maximum of two years;
Secondly, the Master’s programmes, whose duration is two academic years. They can extend to a maximum of three years (for full time students) or four years (for part-time students);
Finally, the Doctoral programmes, whose duration is three years can extend to a maximum of four years (for full -time) or six years (part-time).
By Kurian Musa
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization
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