Rongo: Universities have been challenged to spearhead transformative research and innovation aimed at solving community problems and driving sustainable development in the country. The appeal was made during the 6th International Multidisciplinary Research Conference hosted by Rongo University under the theme ‘Transformative Research and Innovation for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future’. The three-day conference brought together scholars, researchers, innovators, and policymakers from universities and research institutions across the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Carol Wahunja, Secretary for Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, emphasized the critical role of universities in addressing societal challenges through research, innovation, and knowledge generation. She highlighted the importance of positioning institutions of higher learning as centers of excellence by developing practical solutions tailored to community needs. Dr. Wahunja also mentioned the President’s commitment to allocating two percent of the GDP to research through the National Research Fund and encouraged researchers to participate in funding calls to strengthen innovation and scientific solutions.
Rongo University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Michael Ntabu, reiterated the importance of universities in applying acquired knowledge to solve real-life community challenges. He noted ongoing research initiatives at the university targeting issues such as gold mining, sugarcane farming, and crop production. Prof. Ntabu also spoke about the expansion of outreach programs through facilities like the university clinic and soil science department, which serve the public.
The conference, chaired by Dr. Mbuchi, attracted 112 participants from 21 universities and two research institutions, including the Kenya Water Institute and Caldwell Institution. Dr. Mbuchi announced the launch of the university’s community radio station, 87.9 FM, to disseminate research findings and information to local communities.
Innovations showcased at the conference included a prototype machine learning model for digital soil testing presented by Dr. Akane Wekesa from the Co-operative University of Kenya. This project aims to reduce the cost and time involved in soil testing and is expected to be implemented in collaboration with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO).
Prof. Joseph Maitaria of Katarina University highlighted the competitive nature of research funding, emphasizing the need for impactful and value-driven projects to attract government and investor funding.
The conference concluded with Dr. Marren Akong’o’s presentation on the role of technology in preserving culture and traditions. Dr. Akong’o expressed concern over the effects of urbanization on Luo culture and advocated for using digital platforms to preserve and promote African culture among the youth.
The conference is part of Rongo University’s broader agenda to establish itself as a regional center of excellence in research, innovation, and community-driven development.
