Institutions of higher learning have been urged to strengthen collaboration with industry and other stakeholders to accelerate the commercialisation of research and innovations. Such collaborations are also expected to support research and innovation through strategic investment from both the public and private sectors.
This was said by the Principal Secretary, State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. Esther Muoria, who noted that effective collaboration between universities and industry is critical in bridging the gap between research and its practical application.
The Principal Secretary made the remarks during the 14th JKUAT Open Day, held on September 4, 2026, under the theme, “Transforming Livelihoods through Training, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development.”
The event featured a range of research outputs and innovations, including Smart Nyuki, a technology-driven beekeeping initiative that empowers African farmers through IoT-enabled hive monitoring, real-time data analytics and a digital marketplace; value-added products such as cricket cookies; and CanSat, a low-cost satellite-like system fitted with pressure and temperature sensors that provides practical understanding of satellite systems, among other innovations.
In a speech read on her behalf by Eng. Joseph Njau, Dr. Muoria lauded JKUAT for turning policy aspirations into tangible outcomes. She cited the JKUAT Industrial Park as a prime example, noting its role in spearheading local assembly solutions such as Taifa laptops and tablets, which support the country’s national digital learning initiatives.
“I commit to championing JKUAT’s efforts across government and industry networks. We must deepen our collaboration across training, joint research, and technology transfer if we are to successfully deliver on the Kenya Vision 2030,” said Dr. Muoria.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi, said the Open Day was showcasing cutting-edge research and innovations that not only highlight the work being undertaken by the University but, more importantly, align with the country’s development agenda.
Prof. Ngumi noted that the University’s desire is to see various stakeholders benefit from its innovations through commercialisation, creating wealth and improving livelihoods. She therefore urged industry partners to identify and adopt beneficial research and innovation outputs from JKUAT to help address some of the challenges facing the economy.
JKUAT Council Chair, Dr. Micah Onsando, said the University Council will continue to support Management in achieving its objectives of encouraging and nurturing world-class researchers and innovators who dedicate their intellectual capacity to advancing the innovation enterprise.
The Open Day is an important platform where research and innovation meet industry and other stakeholders to showcase solutions, exchange ideas, explore partnerships and promote technology transfer and commercialisation, with the goal of addressing societal challenges, improving livelihoods and driving sustainable development.
