By Kurian Musa
Egerton University’s Agro-Science Park actively participated in the recently concluded 41st International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) World Conference, hosted by Konza Technopolis Authority at Nairobi’s Edge Convention Center. The event, held from September 25 to 27, 2024, attracted 834 delegates from 53 countries and provided a global platform for sharing ideas and forging connections in innovation and technology.
The event, officially opened by Deputy President H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, EGH , brought together global experts to explore the critical role of science parks and innovation areas in empowering regions like Africa and Asia. Prof. Paul Kimurto joined discussions centered on harnessing youth potential, entrepreneurship, and technology for economic growth, while addressing the global challenge of an ageing population. The theme underscored the importance of collaboration to ensure a sufficient talent pool and innovation base for sustaining the global economy.
The Egerton team, led by Prof. Paul Kimurto, Director of the Agro-Science Park, included faculty, staff, and students. Prof. Kimurto represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, who was invited to the Vice Chancellors' Round Table. Reflecting on the event’s insights, Prof. Kimurto said, “It has been an insightful session with much to take home. For instance, we explored how strategic collaborations between private and public sectors can drive innovation and development.”
He further noted that Egerton’s partnerships with various stakeholders would be strengthened to position the Agro-Science Park as a production hub for innovations and technology adoption. The university is already translating research into commercial products, notably seed varieties developed by its scientists, including the Chelalang bean, Ndovu groundnut, and Snapping finger millet.
Commercialization of Research Innovations
Egerton University’s Agro-Science Park leverages research to create commercially viable products, a goal emphasized at the IASP conference. Prof. Kimurto shared examples of the university’s work, such as in the Engineering Department, where bean threshing machines await commercialization. The university envisions establishing a commercial division within the park to facilitate income generation from research outputs.
In the dairy sector, Egerton’s yogurt, a product with a rich legacy as the first of its kind in East and Central Africa, remains a market leader. Through the science park, the university plans to modernize production lines to enhance community collaboration and meet high demand for its premium dairy product.
The broader conversation at the conference underscored the role of universities as industrial hubs. A panelist remarked, “Universities can drive industrial growth through science parks, enabling them to fund research and collaborate across public, academic, and private sectors. The synergy between these sectors is crucial to enhancing productivity and reducing the cost of innovation.”
Key Global Issues Addressed at the Conference
With an eye on demographic trends, the conference tackled pressing issues such as aging populations and skill shortages in many developed nations. Youth were positioned as a vital demographic to reinvigorate entrepreneurship and innovation. Speakers highlighted how countries like Kenya, with its young population and digital readiness, could bridge global skill gaps. Discussions included the potential of remote work, in combination with education in STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Economics, Arts, and Mathematics), as a solution.
Women’s participation in entrepreneurship also took center stage, with speakers noting the need for targeted support for women, especially in underrepresented communities. Jorge Adriano Soares Silva from SEBRAE/DF noted that more than half of educated women globally have never been encouraged toward entrepreneurship. Conference delegates explored initiatives aimed at providing educational and entrepreneurial opportunities for women, indigenous groups, refugees, and rural communities, helping to foster inclusivity within the global innovation landscape.
Embracing Technological Innovation Responsibly
The rapid evolution of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, machine learning, and digitalization presented both opportunities and challenges. Conference discussions emphasized the need for a balanced approach to mitigate risks related to data security and the potential downsides of remote work on creativity and innovation. Tom Bentley from Melbourne Innovation Districts captured this sentiment, saying, “It’s the talent, not the technology, that drives progress.”
Sustainability in Agriculture and Entrepreneurship
A cornerstone of the conference was sustainability and its role in supporting long-term economic growth and environmental protection. Science parks are increasingly promoting sustainable practices by connecting startups with farmers, preventing soil degradation, and supporting regenerative farming. These initiatives have boosted local agriculture and biodiversity, improving rural livelihoods.
Egerton being the oldest Institution of Higher learning that pioneered Training in Agriculture in the Region as a Farm school started by Lord Maurice Egerton, remains a strategic to link Industry with Academic through the Science Park.
The hosts at Konza Technopolis modeled sustainability through smart technologies and a conservation area, embodying the conference’s commitment to harmony with nature. Known as the “Silicon Savannah,” Konza is a forward-thinking model for integrating technology with sustainable practices.
Charting the Future for Science Parks
At this year’s IASP conference, science park leaders and innovators connected to explore paths toward sustainable, inclusive growth. Moving forward, science and technology parks aim to further local and global initiatives that benefit people, economies, and ecosystems. By fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and focusing on community-oriented development, these hubs are set to play a critical role in the global innovation landscape.
