On July 29, 2024, the Chairperson of the 2nd National Virtual Kaimosi Friends University Conference Organizing Committee, Prof. Benson Ojwang, successfully submitted the conference book of abstracts to the KAFU Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita, in the boardroom. The event was also attended by the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic, Student Affairs, and Research (DVC ASA&R), Prof. Julius Kipkemboi, and Dr. Nurwin Fozia.
Prof. Mwita commended the organizing committee for their diligent efforts in preparing for the 2nd National KAFU Annual Conference, held on May 13th and 14th, 2024. He highlighted the importance of the feedback received for enhancing future conferences and proposed that the next conference adopt a blended format, incorporating both physical and virtual elements to enhance the university's outreach. He emphasized the need for early preparations, starting from the first quarter, and assured full support from the management.
During the meeting, various challenges encountered in the previous conference were discussed, such as power blackouts and inadequate Wi-Fi connectivity. Prof. Kipkemboi recommended the installation of a large screen for better speaker visibility and emphasized the importance of motivating staff to participate in conferences, which in turn would spur research and innovation in Kenya.
The booklet contains several sub-themes that were addressed during the conference, including integrating science and technology in education in the 21st century, artificial intelligence in key sectors for national development, education curriculum reforms in Kenya: challenges and opportunities, global trends and their impact on development in Kenya, economic revitalization and dynamic investment post COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and resilient action in Kenya, emerging issues in health, housing, and social welfare in Kenya, cross-cutting themes such as language and communication, and information and communication technology (ICT).
This successful submission marks a significant milestone for KAFU, setting the stage for enhanced planning and execution of future conferences.
