Kenyatta University recently hosted fourteen Vice-Chancellors from various institutions across the country as part of a benchmarking visit under the Entrepreneurial Leaders Training Programme. This initiative, organized by the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), aims to foster a dynamic national innovation system that drives socio-economic development through job creation and wealth generation.

The Vice-Chancellors embarked on an extensive tour of the Chandaria Business and Innovation Centre (CBIC), where they were introduced to an impressive array of innovative projects and companies that are making significant strides in various sectors.

Showcasing Innovation Across Industries

The visit highlighted key innovations spanning multiple industries, each demonstrating the breadth and depth of entrepreneurial activity at Kenyatta University:

• ICT: Companies such as AfriCarTrack and Drone Corps presented their cutting-edge GPS tracking solutions and drone services, while Intelliverse showcased its AI research platform, underscoring the university's commitment to technological advancement.

• Agriculture & Agribusiness: Innovations like Ecodudu's waste-to-feed technology and TechLima's automated irrigation systems exemplify how the university is addressing critical challenges in agriculture through technology.

• Energy: Eco-friendly solutions like Pyro-Degrade Energy's diesel production and Mega Gas's LPG services highlighted the university's focus on sustainable energy innovations.

• Health & Nutrition: Zakam Orthopedics introduced advanced orthopaedic innovations, demonstrating the university's contribution to healthcare solutions.

• Business & Professional Services: The digital credit services platform ShopOkoa, among others, showcased how entrepreneurship at Kenyatta University is driving new business models.

• Transport & Logistics: Auto-Track E.A's electric vehicles are paving the way for a greener future in transportation.

• Manufacturing & Construction: Companies like Arigiene and Cleanstar are leading the charge in sustainable manufacturing practices, with products ranging from eco-friendly wood panels to recycled soap.

• Beauty & Cosmetics: Bee Multiscent's diffusers exemplify the university's innovative spirit in consumer products.

• Waste Management: Eco Hub's composting technology highlights a growing emphasis on sustainability.

Gallery Showcasing Projects

A Focus on Technology Transfer and Innovation

The Vice-Chancellors also visited the Directorate of Innovation Incubation and University-Industry Linkages, a hub dedicated to technology transfer and the patenting of innovations by Kenyatta University’s students, staff, and researchers. A standout moment of the visit was the presentation of Dr. June Madete’s pioneering work in invention education. Dr. Madete has established a Prototyping Design Studio that focuses on assisting students in engineering courses to bring their inventions to life.

Insights on Innovation Success

Prof. Maina Mwangi, Director of CBIC, shared key insights on the factors driving innovation success at Kenyatta University. He emphasized the critical role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the importance of securing financial resources, and the need for skilled personnel and strong partnerships. He also highlighted the significance of enabling policies and the importance of visibility in promoting innovation.

Looking Ahead

The visit underscored the commitment of Kenyan universities to move from research to commercialisation, ensuring that their communities benefit from their innovations. Through such engagements, Kenyatta University continues to position itself as a leader in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.