Head of Public Service (HOPS), Felix Koskei, has challenged academic institutions to embed research into their educational curricula and provide hands-on opportunities for students, saying it cultivates a new generation of innovators and scholars. Mr. Koskei spoke during the 2024 Kenya National Research Festival which was held in Nairobi recently. He said, “The vibrant research culture, supported by strong collaborations between academia, industry, and Government will enhance our educational outcomes to position Kenya as a leader in addressing both local and global challenges.”
He emphasized on the need for advancing research and education in Kenya, celebrating research achievements and nurturing a thriving research ecosystem across all levels of education. He noted that the event represented a significant milestone dedicated to fostering growth through the exchange of knowledge among professionals within the research community. “It is a platform for cultivating relevant and insightful discussions, promoting synergies, and strengthening both domestic and international collaborations. Research is a disciplined journey that transforms curiosity into knowledge and knowledge into power,” he said.
HOPS urged participants to fully recognize and harness the transformative impact of technology-driven research. He added that by leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and block chain, this will revolutionize Kenya’s journey towards a knowledge-based economy. On elevating the role of research science communication, he noted that it was essential for building resilience in Kenya. “In today’s rapidly evolving world, it is crucial to enhance the effectiveness of research science communication to tackle pressing global challenges,” he said.
Mr. Koskei further said that research can play a transformative role in addressing the needs of Kenya’s youth, including in education, unemployment, and life skills. He emphasized that the youth population faced significant challenges which can be addressed through research that can offer data-driven insights and innovative solutions.
Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, observed that research was the cornerstone of progress, guiding nations in making informed decisions that shape societies, whether it’s in developing new technologies, advancing healthcare, or even finding the best restaurant in town. “Without research, we would be navigating life blindly, potentially leading us to some rather questionable destinations,” she said.
Dr. Inyangala added that the Research Festival was important because it serves as a public engagement with science, advocates for a shift towards two-way dialogue, brings together diverse participants and enhances learning and skills. The Chairman National Research Fund (NRF) Board, Prof. Ratemo Michieka, urged researchers to inspire and mentor young scientists saying that they had a duty to encourage and inspire them to develop interest in science and research which will eventually lead them to STEM careers.
He further said, “Our Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) actually articulates support towards cultivating creative thinking and problem-solving, all of which speak to the development of early career interest in research among children, starting from primary school. However, they need inspiring environments where interest in research and science can be built.”
The event was attended by the event Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benedict Mutua, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research and Technology Development (RTD), Prof. Isaac Orina.
The University also exhibited some projects during the event. One of such projects was on ‘Analytics Dashboard’ by Prof. Selesio Kiura, Ag. Director, Information and Communication Technology. The second one was on ‘Preparation of Baobab Yoghurt and powder’ whose lead researcher was Angela Mwangi from the Department of Food Science, School of Biological and Life Sciences (SBLS). The third project was on the preparation of detergents, sanitizers and disinfectants by the School of Chemistry and Material Sciences (SCMS). Also on display were TU-K’s publications and academic programmes on offer.
This year’s festival attracted various global and local participants including British High Commissioner to Kenya, H.E. Neil Wigan, Ambassador of the Republic of Ireland to Kenya, Her Excellency, Caitríona Ingolds, Principal Secretary, State Department for Industrialization, Prof. Juma Mukhwana, Chairperson, Young Scientists Kenya, Mr. Ben Roberts, Chief Executive Officers from various institutions and Vice-Chancellors and Principals of Universities and Constituent Colleges.
