Egerton University joined leading researchers, innovators, policymakers, and institutions from across the country during the inaugural Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Society (STRI4Society) Week held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Nairobi.
The event provided a national platform for showcasing scientific excellence, innovative solutions, and research-driven interventions aimed at addressing societal challenges and promoting sustainable development.
The University delegation was led by Director of Research and Extension, Prof. George Owuor, alongside the Principal of Nakuru City Campus College, Prof. George Ogendi.
The team also included postgraduate students and innovators who actively participated in exhibitions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and discussions focusing on the future of research, technology, and innovation in Kenya.
Speaking after the conference, Prof. George Ogendi lauded the participation of Egerton University staff and students, noting that the engagement exposed participants to emerging opportunities in research collaboration, innovation financing, and technology transfer.
“The participation of Egerton University staff and students at the inaugural Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Society Conference at the KICC was excellent and revealing,” said Prof. Ogendi.
The week-long conference brought together researchers, government agencies, universities, innovation hubs, and industry stakeholders to bridge the gap between research findings and practical societal solutions.
The event underscored the critical role of science and innovation in accelerating Kenya’s socio-economic transformation and achieving sustainable development goals.
The closing ceremony was officiated by Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, who emphasized the importance of strengthening research ecosystems and investing in local innovations to position Kenya competitively in the global knowledge economy.
Hon Mudavadi was accompanied by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, as well as Chief Executive Officers of key national agencies including the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), the National Research Fund (NRF), and the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA).
A key highlight of the event was the official launch of the Kenya Research Financing and Capacity Strengthening Masterplan 2026–2036 by Hon. Mudavadi.
The strategic framework seeks to enhance research funding, strengthen institutional research capacities, and promote innovation-driven development across various sectors of the economy over the next decade.
The masterplan is expected to provide a roadmap for improving collaboration between universities, research institutions, industry, and government while creating an enabling environment for researchers and innovators.
The 2026-2036 plan also aims to increase investment in research and development, enhance commercialization of innovations, and support the growth of knowledge-based industries.
Egerton University’s participation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research, innovation, and academic excellence in line with national development priorities.
The University continues to position itself as a key contributor to scientific advancement and community-driven innovation through collaborative research, postgraduate training, and technology-based solutions that address real-world challenges.
