Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) students have been named Best Research Presenters at the 2nd Annual Scientific Conference of the Kenya Medical Laboratory Students’ Association (KEMELSA), held at the University of Nairobi on March 21, 2026. The accolade recognises a student-led project that harnesses blue light to combat harmful bacteria; offering a safe, affordable, and drug‑free strategy to help curb antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The award-winning research, developed by 10 students from JKUAT’s Department of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), explores the use of blue light to eliminate pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus. The technology can also be applied to sterilise dental instruments, providing a complementary, non‑antibiotic approach to infection control, a critical need as antimicrobial resistance escalates worldwide.
“This project demonstrates the power of student-led innovation in tackling one of global health’s most urgent threats,” said Dr. Peter Karanja, Patron of the Jomo Kenyatta University Laboratory Students Association (JKULSA). “Proper research presentation, grounded in credible citations and a rigorous health-research format, is what elevates such work from idea to impact. Our students exemplified that standard.”
The conference, themed “Bridging Research, Diagnostic Innovation and Professional Practice,” brought together participants from universities across Kenya alongside industry stakeholders. Sponsors included Maabara Health, Raqual Consulting Group (RCG), and Online CPD Provider.
Dr. Paul Kahara, Lead Consultant at Ranqual Consultancy, delivered the keynote address, urging students to harness scientific knowledge for entrepreneurship. “Laboratory medicine is ripe with opportunities to create value, generate income, and improve healthcare delivery,” Dr. Kahara said. “These students are already showing the way.”
For the JKUAT research group, the recognition marks a transformative journey. Miss Nelly Mbugua, Lead Director of Research at JKULSA, reflected on the personal growth catalyzed by such conferences. “We came as shy, hesitant speakers; we left as confident presenters. Events like this have opened doors to scholarships, sponsorships, and professional networks that will shape our careers.”
President of JKULSA and Finance Secretary of KEMELSA, Phanuel Sunday credited the mentorship behind the success. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Amos Mbugua, Chair of the MLS Department; Dr. Peter Karanja; Miss Joyce Gachoki (Matron, JKULSA); Miss Hellen Saisi; and Mr. Jackan Moshe for their unwavering support.
The blue-light project is not intended to replace antibiotics but to complement existing treatments, offering a non-drug-based tool to reduce reliance on antimicrobials—a critical contribution as global health systems confront rising drug resistance.
JKULSA intends to launch a research club in May 2026, in a bid to explore more avenues that translate academic excellence into real-world health innovations.
