Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) held its 20th Scientific, Technological and Industrialization Conference, marking a major milestone in the institution’s two-decade long quest to impact society through impactful research and innovation.
Industry players, institutions of higher learning, and other stakeholders were urged to adopt a more cohesive and collaborative approach in developing resilient solutions that support national development ambitions and address critical international concerns. This emphasis on collaboration set the tone for the conference, highlighting the importance of partnerships in driving innovation and impact.
The conference, held from March 26–27, 2026, celebrated two decades of transformative research and innovation.
Held under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through Training, Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development,” the conference provided a platform for knowledge exchange, partnership building, and the showcasing of cutting-edge research and innovations with real-world applications.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Dr. Esther Mworia, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), noted that the conference theme aligns closely with Kenya’s development trajectory and national priorities.
Dr. Mworia emphasized that strengthening linkages between training institutions and industry is critical in supporting applied research, technology transfer, and skills development.
The PS who was represented at the event by the TVET Director, Archer Arina, underscored the need for closer collaboration to ensure that knowledge generated within institutions translates into practical solutions that address real-world challenges and drive sustainable economic growth.
With rapid technological advancements shaping the global landscape, Dr. Mworia further urged JKUAT and other learning institutions to strategically position themselves in emerging frontiers such as artificial intelligence, robotics, green technologies, and big data. She stressed that equipping learners with relevant, future-ready skills is essential for preparing them to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
Dr. Mworia affirmed that the government remains committed to supporting research, innovation, and skills development by strengthening policies and institutions that promote industrial growth and create opportunities.
“Through CBET, we are systematically aligning skills development with labour market demands, producing graduates who are not only employable but also capable of driving industrial transformation,” Dr. Mworia stated.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi, observed that the conference, has evolved into a premier platform for advancing research, innovation, and industrialization, connecting academia, industry, and policymakers.
“Over the past 20 years, our conferences have showcased thousands of research papers, inspired policy reforms, and facilitated ground-breaking collaborations,” said Prof. Ngumi.
Prof. Ngumi further noted that the conference has showcased impactful research and contributed solutions in agriculture, health, engineering, and technology.
The Vice Chancellor also emphasized that JKUAT remains committed to producing graduates who are not just job seekers but job creators, and researchers whose work addresses societal challenges.
The Chair of Council, Dr. Micah Onsando, noted that institutions of higher learning have both the intellectual capacity and responsibility to contribute to national development through research, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
While calling for closer collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers, Dr. Onsando pointed out the need for universities to actively translate knowledge into practical solutions that address societal challenges and drive inclusive growth.
Adding an industry perspective during the event, the General Manager for Sovereign & Public Sector at Kenya Commercial Bank, Mr. David Nyamu, noted that industry is keen to support initiatives that bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications, underscoring the value of partnerships that enhance innovation, skills development, and economic impact.
During the conference, two outstanding researchers; Prof. Kenneth Ngure and Dr. Charles Cheruiyot were awarded and recognized under the Vice Chancellor’s Award for their contribution to research during the 2024/25 academic year.
Prof. Ngure, a scholar in the College of Health Sciences, received “The Most Notable Contribution to the Field of Study,” while Dr. Charles Cheruiyot from the College of Engineering and Technology, was recognized for “The Best Resource Mobilization.”
