The need to strengthen ethical standards in research took centre stage at Kaimosi Friends University after the institution commenced a three-day training on Research Ethics and Bioethics Normative Instruments for members of its Scientific and Ethics Review Committee and academic staff.

The training, which started on Monday, May 18, 2026, brought together experts in research ethics and bioethics from national institutions and professional bodies to build the capacity of researchers and ethics reviewers on internationally accepted ethical standards and practices.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita delivers his remarks during the opening of a three-day training on Research Ethics and Bioethics Normative Instruments at Kaimosi Friends University on May 18, 2026.

Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita said ethical conduct must remain at the centre of scientific inquiry and innovation.

“Research is the engine that drives innovation, economic transformation, scientific advancement and social progress. However, it must always be anchored on ethical principles, integrity, accountability and respect for human dignity,” said Prof. Mwita.

He commended the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO and the National Bioethics Committee for supporting the establishment and accreditation of Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committees across the country.

Prof. Mwita further noted that UNESCO’s normative instruments, particularly the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights, provide critical guidance in ensuring scientific advancement does not undermine human dignity.

A section of staff follows proceedings during the training on Research Ethics and Bioethics Normative Instruments aimed at strengthening ethical research practices and institutional review capacity.

“Scientific advancement must never supersede human dignity. As researchers and ethics reviewers, we have a collective responsibility to ensure that knowledge generation and innovation uphold the rights, welfare and dignity of humanity,” he said.

The training is being facilitated by experts drawn from key national institutions, among them Dr. Orpha Nyakundi from KNATCOM, Dr. Caroline Wafula of the Bioethics Society of Kenya and Prof. Gordon Nguka from the National Scientific and Ethics Review Committee.

Dr. Nyakundi underscored the importance of institutional ethics review mechanisms in safeguarding responsible research and promoting global ethical standards in science and innovation.

Members of the Kaimosi Friends University Management, Scientific Ethics Review Committee, facilitators and academic staff pose for a group photo during the opening of a three-day training on Research Ethics and Bioethics Normative Instruments held at the University on May 18, 2026..

Dr. Wafula, who also serves as a Clinical Pharmacist and Lead Consultant at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, emphasized the need for researchers to place human welfare and informed consent at the centre of all scientific studies.

Prof. Nguka challenged institutions to strengthen ethics oversight structures to ensure research activities remain credible, accountable and aligned with national and international ethical frameworks.

The training is expected to equip participants with practical knowledge on research ethics review processes, ethical conduct in scientific investigations, protection of research participants and application of international bioethics instruments in academic and scientific work.