Egerton University has initiated the introduction of robotics technology as part of its broader strategy to strengthen innovation, research commercialization and practical technology skills among students and researchers.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), which introduced Code Technology, the team behind the Tech Kids Africa programme, as a strategic partner following a request by the university. The request was led by Directorate of Research Prof. George Owuor and coordinated through the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) led by Dr. Joseph Momanyi.
The delegation's visit at the university comes at the heels of the recent launch of an innovation hub at Egerton University to explore opportunities for collaboration and the development of practical technology solutions.
During a courtesy call at the Vice Chancellor’s office, the team was received by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research and Extension, Prof. Bernard Aduda. Prof Aduda, an expert and scholar in Physics was wowed by the idea of robotics saying this is an area that is futuristic.
“The university is getting ready for Competency-Based Education. We are ready with this idea, and working with each stakeholder to see that we roll out Robotics,” said Prof. Aduda, noting that the robotics initiative aligns with the institution’s focus on mentorship, innovation and technology-driven learning.
Dr. Momanyi explained that the visit also provided an opportunity to outline the university’s plans for a robotics laboratory.
“We showed them where we want to set up the Robotics Laboratory to use robotics in advancing agriculture and other fields,” he said.
The move is part of a broader leadership-driven innovation agenda at Egerton University. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, has participated in forums convened by the Kenya National Innovation Agency that bring together vice chancellors to strengthen entrepreneurial universities and promote commercialization of research. Similarly, Prof. Bernard Aduda has taken part in KeNIA forums for Deputy Vice Chancellors focusing on innovation leadership in universities.
These engagements have informed the university leadership’s strategy to pioneer robotics research and training by establishing a robotics laboratory integrated with artificial intelligence systems.
The initiative is expected to position Egerton University as a centre of excellence in robotics, artificial intelligence and technology-driven agricultural innovation.
The university already has trained staff, some who are licensed to operate drones for precision agriculture, and the addition of robotics is expected to further enhance data-driven farming technologies and research.
By Kurian Musa, Communications Officer.
